Leading the pack in globally distributed file systems

Globally distributed file systems (GDFS) solve a real problem: your data lives everywhere, but your teams need it to behave like it's local. Without the appropriate GDFS, you get unexpected latency, version conflicts, and operational drag; with the right architecture, you get consistent file access from core to edge to cloud that eliminates barriers to effective collaboration.  

This is not a trivial problem to solve, and many vendors now compete in this space, each with different approaches that deliver various benefits and tradeoffs. That's why GigaOm created the GigaOm Radar for Globally Distributed File Systems to help enterprise customers navigate this landscape. Let’s explore why they placed NetApp in the Leader's Circle.  

GigaOm looks at vendors through two lenses: how well they execute and how strong their vision is. This is a practical guide for IT practitioners who want to know which solutions can handle the complexity of global data. 

Managing data across clouds and regions is hard. Latency kills productivity, version conflicts create chaos, and WAN costs spiral. NetApp tackles these problems head-on with NetApp FlexCache, a native feature of its industry-leading storage OS, ONTAP. FlexCache creates remote, writable cache volumes that deliver local-like performance while maintaining immediate global consistency. That means when a write is complete, every location reads the latest version—no stale data, no guesswork. Teams across regions and cloud environments can work on the same dataset without duplicating data while reducing latency, shrinking WAN utilization, and enabling seamless collaboration with a single source of truth.  

• FlexCache Value: Centralized data and intelligent global caching that enables collaboration with consistent files across regions and clouds. 
• Immediate Consistency: Unlike traditional caching, FlexCache ensures everyone works on the latest version, no sync delays, no surprises. 
• No Compromise Performance: Teams get optimized performance with local data access for demanding workloads like AI, electronic design automation (EDA), and media and entertainment (M&E). 

GigaOm calls out NetApp for strengths that matter most to enterprises: 

Advanced data management and analytics 

Global file sharing without intelligent data management quickly turns into chaos. When data sprawls across on-prem, edge, and cloud, you need a single source of truth that scales and adapts. NetApp ONTAP delivers exactly that—a unified platform built on decades of innovation. It eliminates silos, automates tiering, and integrates seamlessly with cloud services. Combined with FlexCache, teams everywhere work from the same authoritative dataset without manual intervention, ensuring performance and cost optimization across globally distributed environments. 

Security that never sleeps 

Expanding collaboration across regions introduces risk. Every new location and connection is a potential vulnerability. ONTAP powers the most secure storage on the planet, with features like end-to-end encryption, immutable snapshots, and autonomous ransomware protection. Compliance with global standards such as GDPR means organizations can scale their globally distributed file systems confidently without sacrificing trust or regulatory alignment. 

Access and permissions control 

Global collaboration only works when the right people have the right access—no more, no less. ONTAP delivers robust multitenancy and granular permissions, from role-based access control to integration with Active Directory and privileged access management. Whether managing hundreds of users across continents or isolating tenants for security, ONTAP ensures your globally distributed file system remains open for innovation yet locked down where it matters most. 
 
These capabilities aren’t just talking points; they deliver measurable results in the real world. From advanced data management to airtight security and precise access controls, ONTAP and FlexCache empower organizations to turn complexity into a competitive advantage. One of the best examples? DreamWorks, a studio that transformed its global workflows with NetApp technology. 

​​Globally distributed file systems are the backbone of modern creative workflows. ​With massive amounts of digital assets and tight deadlines, fast and consistent access to shared data is essential for studios like DreamWorks Animation. DreamWorks leveraged ​​​​​​​​​NetApp® FlexCache®​​ ​to unlock new levels of efficiency for their artists and engineers. ​​ 

​​​​​​​ ​​​ ​Here’s what they achieved: 

• ​​ Seamless Global Collaboration:FlexCacheeliminated distance as a barrier, enabling teams in Los Angeles, and beyond to work on the same data in real time without sync delays or version conflicts. ​Productivity ​flowed as if everyone were in the same studio. 
• ​​Real-Time DataAccess​​​​​​: By reducing latency and bringing data closer to where it was needed, DreamWorks​ artists​ shaved hours off rendering and editing cycles. The result? Faster delivery of stunning visuals and immersive experiences. 
• Cost-Effective Workflow Optimization:Time saved equals money saved. WithFlexCache streamlining workflows, ​​​​DreamWorks redirected resources toward innovation and storytelling, rather than ​data management​

FlexCache isn’t just for creative studios. It accelerates AI inference, global DevOps, and hybrid cloud workflows where speed and consistency are mission critical. With NetApp, you get: 

• Cloud-native integration with AWS, Azure, and GCP. 
• Unified data fabric for core-to-edge-to-cloud workflows. 
• Compliance-ready architecture to help your organization meet stringent security and privacy standards across industries, GDPR, and emerging AI regulations. 

NetApp’s leadership in GigaOm Radar isn’t luck - it’s proof of innovation that solves real enterprise challenges. If you’re ready to simplify, secure, and accelerate your distributed data workflows, let’s talk.