Simplicity, speed and security

The simplicity of implementation and use means it’s ideal for both SMEs and larger companies, as it dovetails in with any existing Ethernet structure. But it has also moved with the times, as speed of connection has become an important requirement.

But that’s not the only reason why Rockstar Data believes that Fibre Channel and Thunderbolt are not able to stack up in the current climate as a solution for SMEs. The former – being essentially made of glass – is more fragile and expensive, putting it way out of the price bracket of creatives. Its progress, in terms of connectivity, has also slowed in recent times, unable to consistently beat its 8G standard. The latter, Thunderbolt, also falls down where it fails to be easily synchronised with current systems – simply put, Ethernet doesn’t require another machine to proxy through.

The creative industry runs on Apple, but many agencies and SMEs don’t always operate from MAC OS throughout. Other departments often work on traditional Windows-based PCs and Ethernet is able to account for the variables within an existing company, completely embracing the existing infrastructure.

What’s more, its connectivity is standard on 99 per cent of all computers, dramatically reducing the need to invest in improving and enabling existing hardware to offer network access. That fact it is so widely available means network access and data sharing is easy.

But with the dawn of 10GbE Ethernet, it also became clear this was credible connectivity for media professionals - a viable mode that offers some of the fastest access to shared storage. It offers a theoretical transfer of 1.25 Gigabytes per second, per channel – faster than anything else currently available.

This speed has also brought popularity, down to the fact that all of the bits and pieces needed for building shared storage solutions could be manufactured in volume. Good news for cost-conscious IT users and financial managers, as switches, cabling and host bus adapters are more affordable than Fibre Channel components. The lack of expensive surprises such as software, service contracts and renewable licenses also gives it adaptability.

Since the emergence of the Cloud, businesses have become increasingly reliant on it, even though connectivity is achieved via an inconsistent broadband supply where speeds are erratic. The dependence on bandwidth is also a downfall, as geography, times of day, as well as reliability of source make it hard to see this option as a genuine, failsafe offering for business. The Cloud also fails to be an ideal location for massive files that require swift access.

In terms of the future and where Ethernet sits, its protocol is under constant improvement and development. With its easy roll-out and horizon scanning producing no better all-round options, it is still a safe long-term bet. Wireless transfer speeds are also generations behind in terms of reliability. For now, Ethernet is firmly here to stay as the mode of choice on which data storage solutions are based.