Apple today introduced Xsan 2, the first major upgrade to its easy-to-use, high-performance, enterprise-class Storage Area Network (SAN) file system for Mac OS X. Xsan 2 combines enhanced performance with Apple's legendary ease of use, allowing even first-time users to set up and quickly deploy a SAN. It introduces MultiSAN, which allows users on a single workstation to access multiple SANs at the same time. Fully integrated with Mac OS X Leopard and Mac OS X Server Leopard, Xsan is also now qualified to work with third-party RAID storage.Among the "pretty sweet new features" that distinguish Xsan 2, Chris Foresman (arstechnica.com) points to the new MultiSAN feature, which "gives simultaneous access to multiple volumes that are hosted by separate controllers." Xsan 2 "also allows file copies from one SAN volume to another directly over FibreChannel for a significant speed boost." In addition, Foresman points to the redesigned admin tools that simplify setup and to Xsan 2's tighter integration with Open Directory, Mac OS X Leopard, and Server Assistant on Leopard server.