Group Logic and Quantum Corp. have teamed up to announce a solution that enables Mac clients to access Quantum's StorNext shared file storage system using Mac OS X native file sharing system. The new product, called Group Logic LAN Client for StorNext, which will ship later this month. StorNext is installed on hosts connected to a storage area network (SAN) disk array, including Apple's Xsan. StorNext provides high-performance storage and archiving over a local area network.

Group Logic LAN Client for StorNext enables Macs to access StorNext shared files and Windows printers using Apple's AFP protocol. The new product will also enable IT administrators to enforce file name policies for Mac files and provide Macs access to Microsoft's Distributed File System (DFS) without indexing volumes at Mac startup. Group Logic LAN Client for StorNext supports Apple's Time Machine backups and enables administrators to control available backup disk space quotas per user or group. It also supports Mac single-sign on to Active Directory.

In a press release, Quantum said that Group Logic's ArchiveConnect product can also be used with StorNext:

Group Logic partnership also brings ArchiveConnect to StorNext users. When used with the Group Logic LAN Client for StorNext, Group Logic's ArchiveConnect software operates between Mac clients and StorNext Storage Manager. Mac desktop users can eliminate inadvertent recall of archived files, easily ascertain the status of archived files and increase productivity by recalling batches of files and folders managed by StorNext Storage Manager.