NetApp has introduced the latest version of its object storage solution, StorageGRID 12.0, designed to help organisations handle growing volumes of unstructured data while improving performance, scalability and security. The update is aimed at supporting AI-driven projects, modernising data infrastructure, and simplifying cyber resilience.
Unstructured data such as text, video, sensor outputs, and server logs is expanding at an unprecedented pace. Businesses in the process of modernising their data lakes or deploying advanced AI models need secure and efficient ways to store and manage this data. Object storage, a method that allows data to be stored cost-effectively and at scale, has become an essential part of modern enterprise environments.
“As the proven industry leader in on-premises object storage, NetApp StorageGRID provides the scalability, cost-effectiveness, and performance needed to feed modern workloads like AI,” said Sandeep Singh, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Enterprise Storage at NetApp. “Our latest updates enable customers to grow their object-based data estates more securely and accelerate workloads so they can focus on putting their data to work.”
Enhancements for scale, management and security
StorageGRID 12.0 introduces several new features designed to optimise performance for AI and high-performance computing (HPC) tasks. Among the most significant is advanced caching technology, which improves efficiency and scalability for training AI models and other demanding workloads. NetApp claims throughput has increased up to 20 times compared with earlier versions.
The solution also now supports bucket branches, a feature that allows versioning of AI datasets. This makes it easier for teams to create clones of their storage buckets, run experiments at scale, and accelerate recovery in the event of disruption.
In addition to scaling improvements, the new release simplifies administration. Enhancements such as automated drive firmware upgrades and improved log archiving are designed to reduce the manual effort involved in system maintenance, allowing IT teams to focus on higher-value tasks.
Security has also been strengthened with new measures, including stronger on-disk encryption, AES GCM encryption with integrity checking, and default blocking of SSH ports. Object lock capabilities for cross-grid replication have been introduced, supporting immutable datasets that are particularly important for AI applications where data integrity is critical.
Driving modern data infrastructure
NetApp positions StorageGRID as a key part of its broader intelligent data infrastructure portfolio. The company offers a range of services that combine unified data storage with observability and AI-driven operational insights. By embedding enterprise-grade storage natively into leading cloud platforms, NetApp aims to deliver flexibility and resilience across diverse data environments.
The company emphasises that StorageGRID 12.0 is designed for organisations at different stages of their digital transformation journey, whether they are just beginning to modernise or scaling advanced AI projects. By integrating performance improvements, simplified operations, and stronger cyber resilience, NetApp is targeting businesses seeking to make better use of their unstructured data while maintaining security and efficiency.
