Nimble

Basic Information

HPE Nimble Storage is an enterprise data storage solution specializing in flash-optimized arrays. The product line includes All Flash Arrays (AF-series) and Adaptive Flash Arrays (HF-series), alongside older CS-series models. Key models encompass AF80, AF60, AF20, AF20Q, HF60, HF60C, HF40, HF40C, HF20, HF20C, and HF20H. The system operates on NimbleOS, with versions such as NimbleOS 2.3 introducing SmartSecure encryption and NimbleOS 5.3.x supporting external Key Management Servers. Nimble Storage was founded in 2008 and acquired by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) in 2017. Product updates have been continuous, with significant expansions like the CS700 series and All-Flash Shelf in June 2014, and Fibre Channel protocol support in November 2014.

HPE Nimble Storage supports a wide range of operating systems including Microsoft Windows Server (with Hyper-V), VMware vSphere, HP-UX, various SUSE Linux Enterprise distributions (Ubuntu, SUSE Linux Virtualization), Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL, RHEV CentOS), Oracle Linux, Oracle Solaris, Citrix XenServer, and IBM AIX. For many current AF and HF series models, the End of Engineering Support and End of Service/Support Life (EOSL) is July 31, 2028. Older CS-series models reached EOSL by October 31, 2024. The last day to purchase many current models (Obsolescence) was July 31, 2023. HPE Nimble Storage features an all-inclusive software licensing model. It supports on-premises deployment as storage arrays, offering cloud-ready capabilities and data mobility to the cloud via HPE Cloud Volumes. It also integrates with HPE GreenLake for a consumption-based deployment model.

Technical Requirements

HPE Nimble Storage arrays are typically housed in a 4U rack-mounted chassis. Each array controller includes NVDIMM for memory. The systems utilize multi-core processors, which are essential for high-speed, in-line variable-block compression without noticeable latency. Storage options include All-Flash Arrays (using Solid State Drives) and Adaptive Flash Arrays (combining SSDs and Hard Disk Drives). Raw capacity can reach up to 1106 TB for models like the AF80, with effective capacities up to 4075 TB. The arrays are managed via a software interface, thus not requiring a dedicated display. Connectivity is robust, with each array controller featuring two built-in 10GbE ports. Optional host connectivity includes 1GbaseT, 10GbaseT, 10GbE SFP+, 25GbE SFP28, 8/16G Fibre Channel, and 32Gb (16Gb) FC. The arrays run on NimbleOS, and are compatible with a broad range of host operating systems including Windows, VMware, various Linux distributions, HP-UX, Oracle Solaris, Citrix XenServer, and IBM AIX.

Analysis of Technical Requirements

HPE Nimble Storage arrays are designed as high-performance, scalable enterprise storage solutions. The use of multi-core processors and flash-optimized architecture ensures efficient data processing and low latency. The comprehensive range of connectivity options, including various Ethernet and Fibre Channel ports, allows for flexible integration into diverse data center environments. The modular design with redundant, hot-swappable components (controllers, power supplies, I/O cards) ensures high availability and simplifies maintenance. The system's ability to scale performance and capacity independently and non-disruptively provides flexibility for evolving business needs.

Support & Compatibility

HPE Nimble Storage arrays run on NimbleOS, which receives continuous updates. Specific versions like 5.3.x offer enhanced features such as external Key Management Server integration. The arrays offer extensive operating system support, including Microsoft Windows Server, VMware vSphere, HP-UX, Ubuntu SUSE Linux Enterprise, SUSE Linux Virtualization, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, Red Hat Enterprise Virtualization CentOS, Oracle Linux, Oracle Solaris, Citrix XenServer, and IBM AIX. For many current models, the End of Service/Support Life is July 31, 2028. Localization details are not explicitly provided in public documentation, but enterprise solutions typically support multiple languages. Drivers for host connectivity are generally provided by HPE or the respective operating system vendors, with the Single Point of Connectivity Knowledge (SPOCK) being the authoritative source for the latest compatibility information.

Analysis of Overall Support & Compatibility Status

HPE Nimble Storage demonstrates strong support and compatibility, crucial for enterprise environments. Its deep integration with leading virtualization platforms like VMware and Microsoft Hyper-V simplifies deployment and management in virtualized infrastructures. A cornerstone of its support is HPE InfoSight, a predictive analytics platform that proactively identifies and resolves approximately 86% of potential issues before they impact operations. This predictive capability transforms the support experience, often eliminating the need for manual intervention. HPE offers various support options, including HPE Datacenter Care, Proactive Care, and Foundation Care, providing tailored hardware and software support. The architecture allows for seamless operating system upgrades and controller replacements without requiring downtime, ensuring continuous availability.

Security Status

HPE Nimble Storage incorporates several security features. These include role-based access control for user accounts, encryption of data at rest, Secure Socket Layer (SSL) certificates, and secure SMTP for communication. The system supports FIPS-certified encryption, specifically FIPS-140-2 certification for its SmartSecure encryption technology, introduced in NimbleOS 2.3. Secure data shredding is also built-in. Data-at-rest encryption uses the AES-256-XTS cipher and can be enabled at either the group or volume level, with flexible policies allowing per-volume control or forced encryption. HPE Nimble Storage also supports integration with external Key Management Servers (KMS) via the Key Management Interoperability Protocol (KMIP), enhancing key management capabilities for enterprises. Some All Flash Array models are NEBS Level 3 certified. Safety certifications include EN60950-1, IEC 60950-1, UL/IEC 60960-1, and CNS14336. For encryption, users must secure passphrases, as their loss can lead to permanent data loss.

Analysis on the Overall Security Rating

HPE Nimble Storage offers a robust security posture, particularly strong in data protection. The FIPS-certified, software-based encryption for data at rest, coupled with flexible policy enforcement and support for external KMS, meets stringent enterprise security and compliance requirements. Role-based access control and secure communication protocols provide foundational security. The system's design emphasizes data integrity and availability through features like Triple+ Parity RAID, which can tolerate multiple drive failures. While general recommendations include diligent passphrase management, the overall security features are comprehensive and well-suited for sensitive enterprise data.

Performance & Benchmarks

HPE Nimble Storage All Flash Arrays demonstrate significant performance improvements, reporting up to 65% faster performance and twice the scalability compared to previous generations. The arrays consistently achieve sub-millisecond response times, critical for performance-sensitive enterprise workloads. Some models deliver sub-300 microsecond latencies for nearly 100% of I/Os. User feedback indicates substantial real-world gains, with one report citing a 270% improvement in throughput, 3,700% in random write, and 1,100% in random read for a CS220G model. The system guarantees 99.9999% availability ("six-nines"), supported by predictive analytics from HPE InfoSight that automatically predicts and resolves 86% of problems. Data reduction technologies, including variable block inline deduplication and compression, achieve up to 5x or more efficiency, with inline compression having no performance impact. Power consumption varies by model and configuration, with Adaptive Flash Arrays typically ranging from 500W/0.56kVA to 750W/0.833kVA. Carbon footprint details are not readily available in the provided information.

Analysis of the Overall Performance Status

HPE Nimble Storage delivers excellent performance, characterized by low latency, high throughput, and exceptional availability. The flash-optimized architecture, combined with multi-core processing and efficient data reduction techniques, ensures that demanding enterprise applications receive consistent and rapid access to data. The InfoSight predictive analytics platform is a key differentiator, proactively identifying and mitigating performance bottlenecks and potential issues, which contributes significantly to the guaranteed high availability. When compared to similar assets like Dell PowerStore and Pure Storage, Nimble is often praised for its balance of performance, ease of management, and cost efficiency, especially with its hybrid arrays. Its patented file system and InfoSight are considered advanced compared to many competitors in terms of proactive analysis and problem resolution. While some users note potential for latency improvement, the overall performance status is highly positive, making it suitable for mission-critical workloads.

User Reviews & Feedback

User reviews consistently highlight HPE Nimble Storage's strengths, particularly its InfoSight predictive analytics platform. This feature receives high praise for providing robust proactive support, real-time reporting, and effective troubleshooting, often resolving issues before they become critical. Users report exceptional stability and reliability, with many experiencing 100% uptime. The storage capacity efficiency, achieved through deduplication and compression, is frequently cited as phenomenal. The system is noted for its radical simplicity in deployment, use, and management, with seamless OS upgrades and controller replacements possible without downtime. Strong integration with VMware environments is also a significant advantage. Customer support is generally rated as excellent. The modularity of the system allows for easy, live upgrades of components, contributing to its long-term value and cost-effectiveness.

However, some weaknesses are also noted. The initial pricing is often considered high compared to alternatives. Some users have reported stability challenges during software updates, particularly with Postgres database issues, and a perceived excess of firmware updates. There is a demand for native Network Attached Storage (NAS) functionality and broader protocol options beyond Fibre Channel. Users also express a desire for deeper integration and support for cloud providers beyond HPE's ecosystem. The absence of one-to-many and synchronous replication capabilities is seen as a limitation for data management efficiency. While generally performing well, some feedback suggests latency could be improved. Additionally, cloud connectivity requirements can sometimes delay activation if firewall settings are not properly configured.

Recommended use cases for HPE Nimble Storage include mission-critical applications demanding 100% uptime, such as in financial institutions and banks with high transaction volumes. It is also well-suited for organizations requiring scalable, reliable, and efficient data storage, including VDI or test/development environments that benefit from fast read/write performance of clones. The solution is particularly effective for mid-sized companies and departmental solutions within larger enterprises seeking simplicity, resiliency, and cloud integration.

Summary

HPE Nimble Storage is a highly regarded enterprise data storage solution, offering a compelling blend of performance, reliability, and intelligent management. Its core strength lies in the flash-optimized architecture, delivering sub-millisecond response times and high throughput for demanding workloads. The system's guaranteed 99.9999% availability is a testament to its robust design, further enhanced by redundant, hot-swappable components and Triple+ Parity RAID. A standout feature is HPE InfoSight, a predictive analytics platform that proactively identifies and resolves a significant majority of potential issues, transforming the support experience and minimizing downtime. This intelligence, combined with efficient data reduction technologies like inline deduplication and compression, optimizes storage capacity and performance without compromise. Security is comprehensive, featuring FIPS-certified AES-256-XTS data-at-rest encryption, role-based access control, and support for external Key Management Servers, addressing critical enterprise security requirements.

The system offers broad compatibility with major operating systems and virtualization platforms, simplifying integration into existing IT infrastructures. Its "scale-to-fit" flexibility allows for independent and non-disruptive scaling of performance and capacity, making it a future-proof investment. User feedback consistently praises its stability, ease of deployment and management, and the value derived from InfoSight's proactive capabilities.

However, the asset does present some weaknesses. The initial cost can be a significant concern for some organizations. Occasional stability issues during software updates and a desire for more native NAS functionality, broader cloud provider integration beyond HPE, and synchronous replication capabilities are areas noted for improvement. While performance is generally excellent, some users suggest further latency optimization.

Overall, HPE Nimble Storage is an ideal choice for enterprises and mid-sized businesses requiring high-performance, highly available, and intelligently managed storage for mission-critical applications, virtual desktop infrastructures, and environments demanding robust data protection. Its strengths in predictive analytics, reliability, and ease of use often outweigh its higher initial cost, especially when considering the long-term operational benefits and reduced management overhead.

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.