Task force on network storage architecture: Internet-attached storage devices

Networks such as HiPPI, SSA and Fibre Channel are becoming the access technology of choice for peripherals such as disk drives, tape drives and disk arrays. These networks scale better than traditional I/O channels, connecting more devices over greater distances and providing greater aggregate bandwidth. More complex protocols are required for network interfaces than for channels. In most cases, specially developed protocols are used, rather than existing standards such as TCP/IP, due to perceived differences in functionality, focus, complexity and especially performance. We reason that most of these concerns either reflect misunderstanding of the IP suite or are being met as the suite evolves. We further argue that the benefits of using IP, including wide area connectivity, cross media bridging and reduced R&D, are substantial. Therefore, we feel that IP is an appropriate choice for a storage device and should be the protocol of choice for systems implementers