News

In-Stat: Nascent Home Network Storage Market Continues Rapid Growth (16/4/2007)

While still small, the home network storage market has more than doubled in the last two years, reports In-Stat (http://www.in-stat.com). However, two crucial roadblocks for the consumer network storage space are complexity and understanding.

"PC-literate consumers are very familiar with USB and Firewire external hard drives that connect directly with a PC," says Joyce Putscher, In-Stat analyst. "But, many are still not familiar with what network storage is and what the benefits entail. Challenges for vendors include offering models with the right combination of features and price points, and educating consumers about the difference between an external hard drive and storage connected to a home network."

Recent research by In-Stat found the following:

-- By 2009, the 500GB and above segment will see significant demand, but demand for enclosure-only products will be strong.

-- In the near term, the North American market will continue to present the greatest opportunities in terms of volume.

-- Media serving features that offer a simple-to-use interface will continue to pervade more SKUs, but typically at the cost of other features or a higher price tag.

The research, "Consumer Network Storage: Heavy Hitters Enter Market" (#IN0703420RC), covers the market for home network storage. It includes 2005 and 2006 worldwide vendor market shares, and forecasts for worldwide consumer network storage by capacity, price tier, and geographic region through 2011. It also includes extensive analysis of market and technology trends, profiles of major vendors, and a very detailed vendor matrix on product lines and features.

The price is $3,495 (US).

www.instat.com