There are two types of SAN architecture, storage-centric SAN architecture and network-centric SAN architecture. A SAN generally consists of three core components; therefore, SAN architecture is composed of: Hosts: These are the system/end devices that use the SAN services. This can include servers and computers on the network. Fabric: This consists of the interfaces such as fiber channel and host bus adapter that enable connectivity between the hosts and SAN infrastructure. Storage: This is the physical storage drives. Typically, SAN architecture defines: Pool of storage used and how it is shared in between different servers or computers connected via the network Type of network or data transmission connection used between the key SAN infrastructure and all connecting nodes Placement of data depending upon the type of SAN architecture or topology Type of SAN topology being used SAN architecture also includes SAN management applications and the overall data storage, consumption and retrieval policy that governs the SAN's resources.