More good news coming direct from Apple - the company behind the elegant side of digital electronics has just unveiled the Xsan 2, the first major upgrade to the user-friendly Storage Area Network (SAN) file system for the Mac OS X. Sporting a complete redesign in terms of convenience and networking, this is an update that should not be missed.

So, what's new with Xsan 2? Lots of things. First, the administration tools have been completely re-imagined and realized, making the arduous task of setting up (and managing) a SAN file system a piece of cake. It also gives administrators a completely new level of control, such as the ability to pre-set volume workload setting for optimal streaming of all file types.

This means anything from uncompressed HD video files to small date center ones. There's also a new feature called MultiSAN, for users who need to access multiple Xsan volumes from the same workstation or server. Handy for anyone working a newsroom or other similar place of occupation.

That is clearly not all, as Xsan 2 can ot only work seamlessly with Leopard Server and all its features, but it also supports third-party RAID solutions from Promise Technology. So if you were worried about having a third-party storage hardware messing up your SANs, then put your doubts to rest, as Xsan 2 can accommodate pretty well.

Parties interested in procuring Xsan 2 should know that it is available right now through the Apple Store, as well as Apple Authorized Resellers for the rather ample price of US$ 999. A bit hefty, yes, but definitely worth it in convenience.