NetApp first impression
Recently I have had a chance to access a NetApp appliance. I am very interested in learning and getting to know the NetApp brand.
So the first task was to see the device. I was not very impressed with the overall appearance. Looked very similar to the IBM DS3500 series and Cybernetic disk shelves that I have been using for the last couple of years.
Second was to read up on the system and gain access. After reading blogs, admin guides, and other manuals I wanted, OK needed, to gain access to the system. So the first task was to find the serial number and register a support account with NetApp. I finally found the serial number.
So I registered the device and download version 3.1.1 of the OnCommand System Manager. I tried to install the software and got this error:
Are you serious?!?! Java 7. We paid over $50K for a SAN that we cannot manage. Yes I know I can downgrade to Java 7. But seriously why?
So my first impression of a NetApp…
It is a really expensive paper weight. NetApp do me a favor and either move off of the Java platform or fix your crappy OnCommand System Manager software and support Java 8.
I hope they fix it soon so I do not have to pull the system out of our environment and purchase a solution that works.
James,
Nick from NetApp here.
First, thank you for your feedback. We truly take UX on board as a core charter of our software development.
Two main things are at play here…
1) As of our newest release, 8.3, we have returned to running System Manager “on box,” so there will be no more issues going forward with Java.
2) In parallel, due to Java 7’s imminent End of Support, we will be releasing patches for older versions that support Java 8. We’re targeting sometime in April for these.
Sincerest apologies for your troubles getting into the box and if you have any further questions, 888-4NETAPP, or feel free to reach me on Twitter and I’ll get you to the right people!
Nick Howell
@datacenterdude
Nick thank you for the update. I am sure this information will help a lot of people. I am in the process of scheduling a maintenance window for the 8.3 Upgrade. There will be a part two to this post.