Evergreen

Basic Information

Pure Storage Evergreen is not a single asset but a portfolio of subscription services designed for Pure Storage's FlashArray and FlashBlade product families. The program launched in 2015, aiming to eliminate traditional storage refresh cycles and provide continuous innovation.

• Model/Version: Evergreen encompasses various offerings: Evergreen//Forever (traditional ownership with continuous upgrades), Evergreen//Foundation (basic subscription with software updates and component replacement), Evergreen//One (consumption-based Storage-as-a-Service), and Evergreen//Flex (hybrid model combining customer-owned arrays with fleet-level consumption economics).
• Release Date: The Evergreen program was introduced in 2015.
• Minimum Requirements: Specific requirements vary by the underlying FlashArray or FlashBlade model. General requirements for Evergreen//One include high-line AC power (200-240V) and sufficient rack space for capacity expansions.
• Supported Operating Systems: The program itself does not have OS requirements; however, the Pure Storage FlashArray and FlashBlade products support various operating systems, including Linux and Microsoft Windows, particularly for database deployments.
• Latest Stable Version: Evergreen provides continuous access to the latest software functionality and features for the underlying Purity operating environment, with updates typically released every one to three months.
• End of Support Date: Evergreen aims to eliminate traditional end-of-support dates through continuous upgrades and component replacement. Evergreen//Foundation subscriptions can remain active until the end-of-life date of the originally purchased system, with Pure Extended Maintenance available for six months for end-of-life components.
• End of Life Date: The Evergreen model is designed to provide "virtually forever" storage, with systems remaining in service for a decade or more through non-disruptive upgrades and component refreshes. DFMs (DirectFlash Modules) are replaced after 10 years for both FlashArray and FlashBlade systems.
• Auto-update Expiration Date: Not applicable, as continuous software updates are a core feature of the Evergreen subscription.
• License Type: Subscription-based.
• Deployment Model: Evergreen supports multiple deployment models:
  • Evergreen//Forever and Evergreen//Foundation: Customer-owned on-premises arrays.
  • Evergreen//One: Consumption-based Storage-as-a-Service (STaaS) for block, file, and object workloads, available on-premises, in the cloud, and in hosted environments.
  • Evergreen//Flex: A hybrid model for customer-owned arrays with fleet-level performance and efficiency services, offering capacity on demand.

Technical Requirements

The Evergreen program itself is a service model, and its technical requirements are tied to the underlying Pure Storage FlashArray and FlashBlade hardware. The architecture emphasizes modularity and non-disruptive upgrades.

• RAM: Specific RAM requirements depend on the FlashArray or FlashBlade model and configuration. Pure Storage arrays are designed with a software-defined architecture that allows for independent upgrades of components like CPU and flash.
• Processor: Specific processor types and core counts vary by FlashArray or FlashBlade model. Evergreen enables non-disruptive controller upgrades to newer, more powerful models.
• Storage: Pure Storage systems utilize DirectFlash Modules (DFMs) for persistent storage. Capacity can be expanded non-disruptively by adding DFM data packs, or blades/chassis for FlashBlade systems.
• Display: Not directly applicable to the storage array itself. Management is typically performed via Pure1, a cloud-based management platform.
• Ports: Specific I/O port configurations vary by FlashArray or FlashBlade model, supporting various protocols for block, file, and object access. The architecture allows for non-disruptive I/O upgrades.
• Operating System: The internal operating system is Pure Storage's Purity OS. For host connectivity, Pure Storage arrays support various operating systems, including Linux and Microsoft Windows.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

Pure Storage's Evergreen architecture is fundamentally designed for continuous modernization. This means the technical requirements are not static but evolve with the system. The modular design allows for independent upgrades of key components like CPU, flash, and I/O, ensuring that the underlying hardware can keep pace with technological advancements without requiring a complete system overhaul. This approach minimizes the risk of obsolescence and extends the useful life of the storage infrastructure to a decade or more. For Evergreen//One, environmental requirements include adequate power and rack space, which Pure Storage may cover the cost of for initial STaaS subscriptions.

Support & Compatibility

The Evergreen program is built around comprehensive support and compatibility, ensuring systems remain current and functional over extended periods.

• Latest Version: Pure Storage provides continuous software updates for its products every one to three months, making new features and performance enhancements available to all Evergreen subscribers at no additional cost.
• OS Support: Pure Storage FlashArray and FlashBlade products are compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including common enterprise platforms like Linux and Microsoft Windows, particularly for database environments.
• End of Support Date: Evergreen aims to eliminate traditional end-of-support concerns by providing continuous hardware and software upgrades. For Evergreen//Foundation, if a component reaches end-of-life, Pure offers extended maintenance for six months.
• Localization: Information on specific localization support for the management interfaces or documentation was not explicitly found in the provided data.
• Available Drivers: While not explicitly detailed, compatibility with various operating systems implies the availability of necessary drivers and host software for integration with Pure Storage arrays.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

Pure Storage Evergreen offers a robust support and compatibility framework centered on continuous innovation and non-disruptive upgrades. The program ensures that customers always have access to the latest software features and can upgrade hardware components (controllers, blades, flash) without downtime or data migration. This "ever modern" approach significantly simplifies the storage lifecycle, reducing the need for costly and disruptive forklift upgrades. The commitment to long system lifetimes (10+ years) with ongoing support and upgrades differentiates Evergreen from traditional storage models. Pure Storage also offers a "Love Your Storage Guarantee" for new customers, allowing a full refund within 30 days if not satisfied.

Security Status

Pure Storage Evergreen incorporates several security features and guarantees, though like any system, it can be subject to external threats.

• Security Features: The platform includes comprehensive cyber protection, ensuring data security and recoverability. Evergreen//One offers a Cyber Recovery and Resilience SLA. Pure Storage has strategic partnerships with security vendors like Rubrik and CrowdStrike to enhance security and threat detection. A "Zero Data Loss SLA" is also a key feature, guaranteeing no data loss within the service infrastructure.
• Known Vulnerabilities: In 2024, Pure Storage experienced a data breach and extortion attempt as part of the broader Snowflake data breach. This incident affected customer and internal system information, but no personally identifiable information (PII) of customers was compromised.
• Blacklist Status: No information found regarding a blacklist status.
• Certifications: Specific security certifications were not explicitly detailed in the provided information.
• Encryption Support: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided snippets, enterprise-grade storage solutions typically include robust data encryption at rest and in transit.
• Authentication Methods: Specific authentication methods for accessing and managing Pure Storage arrays were not detailed in the provided information.
• General Recommendations: Pure Storage emphasizes proactive monitoring and non-disruptive upgrades, which are crucial for maintaining a strong security posture.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

Pure Storage Evergreen demonstrates a strong commitment to data security and resilience through its built-in cyber protection, specific SLAs for cyber recovery and zero data loss, and strategic security partnerships. The non-disruptive upgrade capability is also a security advantage, allowing for rapid deployment of patches and updates without service interruption. The 2024 data breach, while concerning, reportedly did not involve customer PII, indicating a focus on protecting sensitive user data. Overall, the security posture appears robust, with continuous efforts to enhance protection and recovery capabilities.

Performance & Benchmarks

Pure Storage Evergreen, through its underlying FlashArray and FlashBlade products, is designed for high performance and efficiency, with guarantees and continuous improvements.

• Benchmark Scores: Specific benchmark scores were not provided in the search results. However, Pure Storage systems are known for consistent high performance.
• Real-world Performance Metrics: Evergreen//One subscriptions offer guaranteed performance levels based on specific MB/s or IOPS values, depending on block size and workload. Non-disruptive upgrades ensure that performance is maintained or improved without impact during maintenance windows.
• Power Consumption: Pure Storage systems are designed for low power consumption and efficient use of physical capacity. Evergreen//One offers a "Paid Power & Rack Commitment," where Pure Storage covers the cost of power consumed and rack space for the deployed service infrastructure for the initial service term.
• Carbon Footprint: The energy-efficient design and long system lifetimes contribute to a reduced carbon footprint.
• Comparison with Similar Assets: Pure Storage claims 30% to 60% lower Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) and twice the data reduction compared to traditional storage solutions. The Evergreen model eliminates the need for disruptive "forklift upgrades" common with other vendors every 3-5 years.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

Pure Storage Evergreen delivers strong performance through its all-flash architecture and continuous innovation model. The program's emphasis on non-disruptive upgrades ensures that performance is consistently maintained and enhanced over time, without the typical performance dips associated with traditional storage refreshes. Guaranteed performance SLAs for Evergreen//One provide assurance for critical workloads. Furthermore, the focus on energy efficiency and a commitment to cover power costs for certain offerings highlight a strong performance-to-power ratio and a reduced environmental impact.

User Reviews & Feedback

User feedback on Pure Storage Evergreen consistently highlights its innovative approach to storage ownership and management.

• Strengths:
  • Non-Disruptive Upgrades: Users frequently praise the ability to upgrade hardware and software without downtime, performance impact, or data migrations.
  • Elimination of Forklift Upgrades: The program's ability to avoid costly and disruptive storage refreshes is a significant advantage.
  • Predictable Costs: Flat and fair subscription renewals and predictable TCO are highly valued.
  • Continuous Innovation: Access to the latest technology and features without re-buying hardware is a key benefit.
  • Long System Lifetimes: The ability to keep systems running for a decade or more is seen as a strong return on investment.
  • Simplified Management: AI-based intelligent management (Pure1) simplifies monitoring and planning.
  • Customer Experience: Pure Storage consistently receives high ratings for its customer experience.
• Weaknesses: The provided search results primarily focus on the benefits and positive aspects of the Evergreen program, with no explicit mention of common weaknesses or negative feedback from users.
• Recommended Use Cases: Evergreen is recommended for a broad range of enterprise workloads, including AI, cloud-native applications, backup storage, databases, high-performance computing (HPC), real-time enterprise, and virtualization. It is particularly beneficial for organizations seeking to reduce operational complexity, achieve IT agility, and optimize storage costs over the long term.

Summary

Pure Storage Evergreen represents a transformative approach to enterprise storage ownership and management, shifting from a depreciation model to an appreciation model where storage capabilities continuously improve. Launched in 2015, it is a portfolio of subscription services (Evergreen//Forever, Evergreen//Foundation, Evergreen//One, Evergreen//Flex) applicable to Pure Storage's FlashArray and FlashBlade products.

The core strength of Evergreen lies in its commitment to continuous, non-disruptive upgrades of both hardware and software. This eliminates the need for traditional "forklift upgrades," data migrations, and the associated downtime and costs, allowing systems to remain "ever modern" for a decade or more. This modular architecture supports independent upgrades of components like CPUs, flash, and I/O, ensuring that the underlying storage arrays can adapt to evolving technological demands.

From a support and compatibility perspective, Evergreen provides predictable, flat-rate renewals and access to the latest software features through frequent updates. It offers various deployment models, from customer-owned on-premises arrays to consumption-based Storage-as-a-Service, catering to diverse organizational needs. Performance is a key focus, with guaranteed SLAs for Evergreen//One, and the architecture is designed for high efficiency, low power consumption, and a reduced carbon footprint.

Security is addressed through comprehensive cyber protection, including a Zero Data Loss SLA and partnerships with leading security vendors. While a data breach occurred in 2024, it reportedly did not expose customer PII, indicating a focus on data privacy.

User feedback consistently highlights the benefits of non-disruptive upgrades, predictable costs, and the long-term value proposition. Evergreen is well-suited for organizations seeking to simplify storage management, reduce Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by 30-60% compared to traditional models, and achieve greater IT agility for workloads such as AI, cloud-native applications, and databases.

Recommendations: Pure Storage Evergreen is highly recommended for enterprises looking for a future-proof storage solution that minimizes operational overhead, eliminates disruptive refresh cycles, and provides continuous access to the latest technology. Its subscription model offers financial flexibility and predictable costs, making it an attractive option for long-term storage investments. Organizations should carefully evaluate the different Evergreen offerings (//Forever, //Foundation, //One, //Flex) to determine the best fit for their specific ownership and consumption preferences.

The information provided is based on publicly available data and may vary depending on specific device configurations. For up-to-date information, please consult official manufacturer resources.