NetApp ASA: SAN-optimised all-flash block storage
ASA is the SAN-only member of the NetApp family. It runs ONTAP but presents block storage exclusively, which removes the NAS surface and simplifies both the configuration and the support model. The references in our table are those published in the ASA datasheet we hold; NetApp also sells a current ASA r2 generation whose specification we supply on request.
Technical specification
| Model | Type | Maximum capacity | Controller | Protocols | Drive type | Rack U |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASA A150 | SAN-optimized all-flash block storage | 13 PB effective (5:1) | Dual controller; up to 432 SSDs | NVMe/TCP, FC, iSCSI | SFF NVMe SSD | 2U; 24 internal SSD slots |
| ASA A250 | SAN-optimized all-flash block storage | 26 PB effective (5:1) | Dual controller; up to 288 SSDs | NVMe/TCP, NVMe/FC, FC, iSCSI | SFF NVMe SSD | 2U; 24 internal SSD slots |
| ASA A400 | SAN-optimized all-flash block storage | 351 PB effective (5:1) | Dual controller; up to 2,880 SSDs | NVMe/TCP, NVMe/FC, FC, iSCSI | SFF NVMe SSD | 4U |
| ASA A800 | SAN-optimized all-flash block storage | 158 PB effective (5:1) | Dual controller; up to 1,440 SSDs | NVMe/TCP, NVMe/FC, FC, iSCSI | SFF NVMe SSD | 4U; 48 internal SSD slots |
| ASA A900 | SAN-optimized all-flash block storage | 351 PB effective (5:1) | Dual controller; up to 2,880 SSDs | NVMe/TCP, NVMe/FC, FC, iSCSI | SFF NVMe SSD | 8U |
Source of the values: NetApp ASA A-Series datasheet. These are the references published in the ASA datasheet we hold. NetApp also sells a current ASA r2 generation (A20 to A1K and C30); its specifications are supplied on request. An en dash means the manufacturer does not publish that value; we do not fill it in with an estimate. Confirm every figure against the current manufacturer document before it is written into a contract.
The references we quote in this family are ASA A150, ASA A250, ASA A400, ASA A800 and ASA A900. Send us the reference if you already have one, or the usable capacity and the protocol you need if you do not, and we will confirm availability and lead time.
Which one should you choose?
SAN-only is a simplification, not a limitation
If every workload on the array is block, the NAS capability of a unified system is surface area you configure, patch and audit without using. ASA removes it. For a database estate or a hypervisor cluster that is a genuine operational saving rather than a marketing distinction.
Protocol set is the check to make
Most models in this generation carry NVMe/TCP, NVMe/FC, FC and iSCSI. The A150 is the exception and does not list NVMe/FC. If the plan is to move to NVMe over fabrics, confirm the model supports the transport you intend before the order rather than after.
Chassis size does not track the model number
The A900 is 8U, the A800 and A400 are 4U, and the A250 and A150 are 2U. Rack planning has to use the published figure rather than an assumption that a bigger number means one more unit. Our table carries the value for each reference.
ONTAP data services come with it
Snapshots, replication and the cluster model are the same as on AFF. That matters if you already run ONTAP elsewhere, because the operational knowledge and the replication relationships carry across rather than needing a second toolset.
Two generations exist, name the one you mean
Our table documents the generation the manufacturer datasheet we hold covers. NetApp also ships ASA r2 models named A20 through A1K and C30. When you compare quotations, make sure both sides are describing the same generation, because the model names are close enough to be confused.
Where it fits, and where it does not
Fits a block-only estate: databases, hypervisor clusters and applications that never ask for a file share, especially where an ONTAP footprint already exists. Does not fit a site that needs NAS from the same array, where AFF is the right family.
What we need in order to quote it
- Block protocols in use and any move planned to NVMe over fabrics
- Usable capacity after reduction
- Whether an ONTAP cluster already exists
- Rack units available
- Replication target and recovery objectives
Request a Quote
Tell us the usable capacity, the protocol and the delivery country. A priced quote comes back within 48 hours, usually with a second option so the trade-off is visible.
