Top Openfiler Alternatives for Robust Network Storage
Openfiler, once a popular network storage operating system, offered a powerful and intuitive web-based interface to convert x86 servers into multi-protocol network storage appliances. Its support for CIFS, NFS, Fibre Channel, and iSCSI made it a versatile choice for cross-platform compatibility and virtualization environments like Xen and VMware. However, as technology evolves, many users are now seeking modern, more actively developed, or feature-rich Openfiler alternative solutions. This article explores some of the best replacements available today.
Discovering the Best Openfiler Alternatives
Whether you're looking for open-source flexibility, enhanced features, or commercial support, there's a strong alternative to Openfiler that can meet your network storage needs. Dive into our curated list of top contenders.
OpenMediaVault
OpenMediaVault is an excellent, open-source network attached storage (NAS) solution built on Debian Linux. It's a fantastic Openfiler alternative, offering a modern web interface and a wide array of services including SSH, (S)FTP, SMB/CIFS, and DAAP media server. Key features like support for Docker, Google Drive integration, HTTP Web seeding, and S.M.A.R.T. data monitoring make it a robust and versatile choice for self-hosted storage.
FreeNAS
FreeNAS, now known as TrueNAS CORE, is a widely popular, free, and open-source operating system based on BSD. It's renowned for its simplicity in creating centralized data storage over a network and is a strong Openfiler alternative, especially for those prioritizing data integrity and reliability. FreeNAS boasts features like being lightweight, security-focused, and offering excellent stability, making it ideal for various hardware platforms and virtualization.
Unraid
Unraid is a commercial Linux-based operating system designed for personal and small business use, providing enterprise-class features that make it a compelling Openfiler alternative. It excels in maximizing performance and data protection with features like parity drives, data redundancy, and encrypted backups. Furthermore, Unraid offers robust virtualization capabilities, including a hypervisor for virtual machines and remote management.
XigmaNAS
XigmaNAS, formerly NAS4Free, is an open-source storage NAS distribution based on FreeBSD, making it a direct and capable Openfiler alternative. It provides comprehensive network-attached storage functionalities, including an FTP server and support for S.M.A.R.T. data monitoring, allowing users to build a reliable and self-hosted storage solution.
Rockstor
Rockstor is a free and open-source NAS operating system that serves as a modern Openfiler alternative. Based on CentOS Linux and leveraging the BTRFS filesystem, it offers advanced features for data management and integrity. Key features include support for SFTP and WebDAV, making it a flexible choice for both commodity hardware and hypervisor installations.
Amahi Home Server
The Amahi Home Server is a free and open-source solution designed for home and small office environments, providing an easy-to-use Openfiler alternative with a broad range of features. It supports multiple platforms including Mac, Windows, Linux, Android, and iOS, offering functionalities like Nextcloud integration, backup, dynamic DNS, file sharing, music streaming, networking, and VPN capabilities.
NexentaStor
NexentaStor is a free and open-source network storage appliance that stands out as a powerful Openfiler alternative, especially due to its integration with the ZFS filesystem. It provides enterprise-grade data management features, including block-level checksumming and automated tier management, making it a robust choice for complex storage needs on Linux.
napp-it
napp-it offers a high-quality block and file storage solution as a freemium Openfiler alternative, designed to run on common server hardware (e.g., DataOn, Dell, HP, SuperMicro) paired with a solid server OS like Linux or OpenIndiana. It focuses on providing reliable and efficient storage management.
EON ZFS Storage
EON (Embedded Operating system/Networking) ZFS Storage is a free personal Openfiler alternative, built on Solaris. It's a small operating system specifically designed for storing digital data on Intel/AMD (x86) hardware, focusing on efficient file sharing capabilities within a Linux environment.
The landscape of network-attached storage solutions has evolved significantly since Openfiler's heyday. By exploring these diverse and feature-rich Openfiler alternatives, you can find the perfect fit for your specific requirements, whether you prioritize open-source flexibility, advanced data protection, or ease of use.