What does "over fabric NVMe" enable in a storage network?

"Over fabric NVMe" refers to the capability of extending the NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) protocol over a network fabric. This advancement allows NVMe storage devices to be accessed over a network rather than being limited to direct connections to a host system. By enabling NVMe to operate over network fabrics such as Fibre Channel or Ethernet, it significantly enhances the performance of data transactions, as NVMe itself is optimized for low latency and high throughput.

In a storage network context, this means that multiple servers can efficiently access shared NVMe storage resources, providing a significant boost to the overall system performance and scalability. This capability is crucial in modern data centers where speed and efficiency are paramount, allowing systems to leverage high-speed NVMe storage without being confined to physical proximity.

The other options do not accurately describe the primary function of "over fabric NVMe." While it does contribute to reduced hardware requirements indirectly by allowing greater resource sharing, the primary benefit is the ability to extend the NVMe protocol across a broader network, thus optimizing data flow and utilization of storage resources.