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NetApp Makes Virtual Upgrade: Page 2 of 3

This future scenario sounds more interesting in light of NetApp's improved Data OnTap operating system, which runs on the V-Series. Announced in November 2004 (see NetApp Freshens What's OnTap ), the Data OnTap 7G software features the ability to create volumes across more than one spindle on a filer, through the use of thin provisioning. The software also supports writeable snapshots, or views of stored data at a given point in time. Previously, NetApps snapshots were read-only.

More features are in the works. The global namespace software that NetApp acquired with its purchase of Spinnaker Networks in 2003 will be added, even though it won't be fully integrated with the V-Series until 2006, NetApp spokespeople say. The delay has been common knowledge for months now, as engineers apparently must add features such as CIFS support to make the Spinnaker technology meet expectations.

Another roadblock to NetApp's full vision of the V-Series has to do with none other than rival EMC Corp. (NYSE: EMC). NetApp says many big customers have asked NetApp to add EMC array compatibility to the V-Series. But without a cooperative support agreement in place, NetApp can't do it.

"So far, EMC has been kind of unwilling to engage with us in a cooperative support arrangement," says Jeff Hornung, VP and general manager of enterprise file services and storage networking at NetApp.

"It's not going to ever happen," says one industry analyst, who asked not to be named. EMC, he says, finds the concept of supporting its major NAS rival just too unappetizing.