Explore the critical role of software-defined storage in modern IT strategy through this 40-minute Red Hat presentation. Learn how data explosion and changing datacenter needs are driving the shift from traditional, inflexible storage appliances to more agile solutions. Discover how open, software-defined storage leverages open source technology on standard hardware to provide flexible, scalable services that meet evolving business demands. Gain insights into the benefits of server-based storage systems, scale-out architecture, and software-based intelligence. Understand use cases including object storage, container storage, and solutions for petabyte-scale data growth. Ideal for cloud builders, storage administrators, and IT strategists, this talk covers the fundamentals of software-defined storage and demonstrates its value in supporting modern infrastructure and meeting service level agreements efficiently.