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NetApp FAS Series Reviews

Vendor: NetApp
4.4 out of 5
Badge Ranked 1
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What is NetApp FAS Series?

NetApp FAS Series offers high availability and seamless protocol integration. Known for its robust features such as data replication and efficient storage architecture, it finds use in challenging enterprise environments and virtualization.

Get the NetApp FAS Series Buyer's Guide and find out what your peers are saying about NetApp FAS Series, Dell PowerStore, Dell PowerScale (Isilon) and more!
NetApp FAS Series is the #1 ranked solution in top Modular SAN (Storage Area Network) solutions, #3 ranked solution in top NAS solutions, and #4 ranked solution in top Deduplication Software. PeerSpot users give NetApp FAS Series an average rating of 8.8 out of 10. NetApp FAS Series is most commonly compared to Dell PowerStore: NetApp FAS Series vs Dell PowerStore. NetApp FAS Series is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 49% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a manufacturing company, accounting for 14% of all views.
Buyer's Guide
NetApp FAS Series
April 2026
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NetApp FAS Series mindshare

Product category:
Deduplication Software
As of April 2026, the mindshare of NetApp FAS Series in the Deduplication Software category stands at 4.1%, up from 3.5% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.
Deduplication Software Mindshare Distribution
ProductMindshare (%)
NetApp FAS Series4.1%
Dell PowerProtect Data Domain22.8%
HPE StoreOnce17.9%
Other55.2%
Deduplication Software

PeerResearch reports based on NetApp FAS Series reviews

TypeTitleDate
CategoryDeduplication SoftwareApr 28, 2026Download
ProductReviews, tips, and advice from real usersApr 28, 2026Download
ComparisonNetApp FAS Series vs Dell PowerProtect Data DomainApr 28, 2026Download
ComparisonNetApp FAS Series vs HPE StoreOnceApr 28, 2026Download
ComparisonNetApp FAS Series vs Dell PowerProtect Data ManagerApr 28, 2026Download
Suggested products
TitleRatingMindshareRecommending
Dell PowerStore4.3N/A97%185 interviewsAdd to research
Dell PowerScale (Isilon)4.4N/A96%81 interviewsAdd to research
 
 
Key learnings from peers
Last updated Feb 8, 2026

Valuable Features

NetApp FAS Series offers unified storage, high availability, and reliability. Its valuable features include snapshots, SnapMirror for disaster recovery, deduplication for space efficiency, seamless integration with VMware, and flexibility with protocols like NAS and SAN. Users appreciate its ease of management, robust performance, and comprehensive data protection. Its flexibility allows easy adaptability to different environments, while the data management and monitoring capabilities enhance operational efficiency and ensure data integrity.
  • "It is great to see that NetApp is ahead of the game with regard to support for Virtual Volumes – it is also nice to see that the 8.3 release can be installed on older versions of hardware allowing FAS customers, who purchased their systems a number of years ago, to take advantage of Virtual Volumes."
  • "The nice thing about FAS is that it has excelled at the first three points above for many years and the last point has been introduced with the On-Demand engine in cDOT 8.3 – there are plenty of arrays on the market that will be enabled for VVOLs, but they will not be able to claim efficient support for these features without massive re-engineering work."
  • "Overall I think NetApp are finally in a good place with cDOT and they can now put the 7-Mode platform behind them and focus on innovating."

Room for Improvement

NetApp FAS Series faces challenges in performance, cost, and integration with other systems. Users report issues with documentation and support, as well as desires for improved monitoring, cost efficiency, and more cohesive management tools. There's a call for better cloud integration and more robust automation features. Users also suggest expanding SAN support and addressing migration complexities. Finally, enhancing user interfaces and increasing storage flexibility are areas of interest.
  • "The current snapshot technology in VMFS is to say the least very poor – best practice is to have no more than 2-3 snapshots in a chain (even though the maximum is 32) and to use no single snapshot for more than 24-72 hours – the reason is simple, storage performance will suffer if you create a snapshot on a VM."
  • "There is a real danger that your new storage array becomes obsolete shortly after purchase."
  • "The NetApp FAS Series is not as high-performing for our business critical applications, because it's not an all-flash solution."

ROI

NetApp FAS Series offers substantial ROI, particularly in VMware environments. Users report improved data storage efficiency, reduced operational costs due to decreased power, cooling, and space requirements, and valuable deduplication and compression benefits. Many have found quantifying ROI challenging but still note positive financial outcomes. It saves time by consolidating storage from various vendors. Despite costs associated with disk expansion, the maintained configuration enhances efficiency. Users express satisfaction and loyalty, highlighting substantial gains.

Pricing

Enterprise buyers evaluating NetApp FAS Series should consider that pricing can be perceived as high, mainly influenced by capacity, configurations, and one-time purchase structures. While some view it as expensive, others appreciate its value, often finding it cost-effective over time due to its ROI and feature set. Licensing is generally fair, with costs depending on required features. Support costs can add to overall expenditure. Competitors like Huawei and Dell present varying price comparisons.
  • "The pricing of NetApp FAS Series is not cheap, but in comparison to other vendors, NetApp FAS Series is affordable because they also have deduplication, compression, and inline compression. They focus on storage only, which is really good; it works."
  • "NetApp FAS Series is a reasonably high-priced solution, partially because we select the configuration that duplicates the entire system."
  • "I would rate the pricing a seven out of ten, with ten being expensive. We pay a one-time purchase price."

Popular Use Cases

NetApp FAS Series is primarily used for enterprise-level file storage across various applications, including healthcare, virtual environments, and corporate data stores. Users deploy it for data protection, virtualization, and block and file sharing, utilizing features like SnapMirror, NAS, SAN, and database management. Its unified storage capabilities support multiple protocols, providing robust and reliable data management for industries like broadcasting, finance, and healthcare. Performance and efficiency also meet diverse backup and replication needs.

Service and Support

NetApp FAS Series receives high praise for knowledgeable and professional service, particularly at higher tiers. Users appreciate fast response times, effective tools like auto-support, and proactive communication. However, there are concerns about decreasing expertise at lower levels, response delays, and mediocre overseas support. Many rely on local partners for initial levels, influencing service satisfaction. Most find technical assistance prompt and thorough, with room for improvement noted in specific regions and circumstances.

Deployment

NetApp FAS Series' initial setup is generally straightforward. Some users find it easy due to well-documented guidance and familiarity, while others note complexities related to configuration and technical prerequisites. There is an improvement over time, with usability enhancements observed. New users may require professional assistance or support from experienced partners. With preparation and adherence to best practices, the setup process can become more manageable and efficient.

Scalability

NetApp FAS Series exhibits significant scalability, allowing expansion both horizontally and vertically. Many users find it easy to scale, though costs might affect broader adoption. It’s appreciated for its flexibility with clustering, enabling smooth scaling with added components. While some faced equipment limitations, others highlighted its strength in supporting large-scale deployments with minimal disruptions. The product's design caters to various enterprise needs, adjusting well for different sizes and requirements.

Stability

NetApp FAS Series scores high on reliability with frequent positive remarks. Most users report it as solid, stable, and very dependable, citing few issues that are quickly resolved. Some mention occasional bugs or hardware issues, often managed non-disruptively with built-in redundancy. Challenges often stem from external factors rather than NetApp FAS Series itself. Despite isolated reports of instability, many users rate it highly, often 8 or 9 out of 10, appreciating consistent performance and durability.
These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.
Download our NetApp FAS Series Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers
Company SizeCount
Small Business21
Midsize Enterprise28
Large Enterprise44
By reviewers
By visitors reading reviews
Company SizeCount
Small Business321
Midsize Enterprise157
Large Enterprise453
By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews
Manufacturing Company
14%
Financial Services Firm
12%
Computer Software Company
10%
Construction Company
5%
Comms Service Provider
5%
Outsourcing Company
4%
Marketing Services Firm
4%
University
4%
Government
4%
Healthcare Company
4%
Educational Organization
4%
Media Company
3%
Insurance Company
3%
Performing Arts
3%
Real Estate/Law Firm
2%
Retailer
2%
Energy/Utilities Company
2%
Transportation Company
2%
Recreational Facilities/Services Company
2%
Hospitality Company
1%
Wholesaler/Distributor
1%
Legal Firm
1%
Consumer Goods Company
1%
Pharma/Biotech Company
1%
Non Profit
1%
Aerospace/Defense Firm
1%
Renewables & Environment Company
1%

Compare NetApp FAS Series with alternative products

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Learn more about NetApp FAS Series

NetApp FAS Series delivers valuable enterprise storage capabilities with an emphasis on unified storage architectures supporting SAN and NAS functionalities. Features like high availability, robust snapshot technology, and seamless protocol integration cater to diverse workloads. Data replication through SnapMirror and reliable performance under heavy loads are appreciated. Deduplication and compression enhance storage efficiency while scalability, resilience, and strong customer support further its appeal. Improvements are desired in flexibility, documentation, speed, and affordability. Additionally, its monitoring capabilities and cloud integration need attention. Organizations employ FAS Series for enterprise storage, SQL Server LUNs, Exchange LUNs, VMware, and corporate file sharing.

What are the most notable features of NetApp FAS Series?
  • High Availability: Ensures continuous access and reduces downtime.
  • Snapshot Technology: Offers point-in-time copies for data recovery.
  • SnapMirror: Provides efficient data replication for disaster recovery.
  • Storage Efficiency: Deduplication and compression optimize storage use.
  • Cloud Integration: Enhances flexibility with cloud environments.
What benefits should be examined in reviews?
  • Scalability: Supports expanding storage needs without performance loss.
  • Reliability: Maintains robust performance under heavy workloads.
  • Strong Support: Access to helpful customer service resources.
  • Cost Efficiency: Consider value in context of feature set and performance.

In industries such as finance and healthcare, NetApp FAS Series is implemented for centralized data management, supporting complex protocols like NFS, CIFS, and iSCSI. This enables efficient handling of virtualization, databases, unified storage tasks, and backup solutions crucial for maintaining unstructured data and redundancy.

NetApp FAS Series customers

Children's Hospital Central California, Plex Systems, PDF PNI Digital Media, Denver Broncos, PDF KSM Legal, Clayton Companies, Virginia Community College

Related questions

  • 303
What is the biggest difference between EMC Isilon and NetApp FAS Series?
  • 134
How would you compare Dell PowerProtect DD vs NetApp FAS series?
  • 87
Compare EMC Data Domain and HPE StoreOnce. Which is better?
  • 56
When evaluating Deduplication, what aspect do you think is the most important to look for?
  • 64
What Dell EMC PowerProtect DD alternatives do you recommend?
  • 74
Why is Deduplication Software important for companies?

Product Categories

Product Categories
Deduplication Software
NAS
Modular SAN (Storage Area Network)

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NetApp FAS Series Reviews Summary
Author infoRatingReview Summary
DIRECTOR at Vellore Online Systems3.5I've used NetApp FAS Series since 2013 for high-performance, hybrid storage in demanding environments, appreciating its snapshots and deduplication, though pricing, ransomware protection, and part availability after five years are notable concerns.
Solution Architect at a tech services company with 10,001+ employees4.5I find NetApp FAS Series easy to use with strong unified storage and snapshot features, though cloud integration and support response times could improve; it's a reliable solution, best chosen based on specific use cases.
System Engineer at a computer software company with 1,001-5,000 employees4.0I regularly use the NetApp FAS Series for storage-related tasks such as shares and replication. Its visibility and features like deduplication are beneficial, though configuring custom roles was challenging. Overall, it's cost-effective with excellent storage capabilities.
Senior Cloud System Engineer at Atos Poland3.5I primarily use the NetApp FAS Series for archival and backup with its simplicity and cost-effective RAID technology. While it lacks NVMe speed, its affordability and efficient storage options suit my client's needs well, despite occasional bugs that NetApp promptly addresses.
Infrastructure Architect at a insurance company with 1,001-5,000 employees4.0NetApp AFF provides us with outstanding performance and reliability, eliminating previous performance issues. While the MFA setup was cumbersome, features like SnapLock and data reduction efficiencies offer immense value, ensuring data integrity and operational improvements.
IT Services at a manufacturing company with 1,001-5,000 employees5.0We upgraded to NetApp AFF for its superior support and integration with Cisco systems. The ONTAP tools ease VMware management, and we value the standalone support. However, we struggle to find in-person training that suits our schedule.
IT Infrastructure Analyst at a manufacturing company with 5,001-10,000 employees4.0NetApp AFF has streamlined our storage management across facilities, allowing easy storage provisioning and excellent snapshot restoration. While there's a learning curve and upgrade challenges, it surpasses previous solutions like Dell and Synology in compatibility and management.
Pre-Sales Director France, Belgium and Luxembourg at a tech vendor with 5,001-10,000 employees4.0NetApp FAS Series excels in NAS with ease of use and continuity across environments, but lacks in hyper-converged solutions compared to Nutanix. While it leads in storage, NetApp's AI portfolio is limited, and Dell is a main competitor.