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Arrow Quick Hit: NetApp Keystone. It's not complicated.

July 08, 2026 | Chris Dedmon

What is it?

NetApp Keystone is the Storge-as-a-Service (STaaS) solution that delivers enterprise storage through a simple, subscription-based model.

It gives customers the flexibility to run block, file and object storage across on-prem and cloud environments, all managed through a single platform. 

  • Pay for what you use
  • Scale capacity on demand
  • One predictable bill
  • No upfront CapEx expenses

Why should you care?

Because your customers are tired of:

  • Overbuying storage "just in case"
  • Managing complex infrastructure 
  • Dealing with unpredictable costs

Keystone does all three. 

Align cost to actual usage, remove the burden of hardware lifecycle management and simplify hybrid cloud operations. Customers focus on outcomes, not infrastructure. 

How do you position it?

Keep it simple:
"Keystone delivers cloud storage but on premise."

Lead with these value drivers:

Financial flexibility 

  • Shift from CapEx to OpEx
  • Predictable, transparent pricing
  • Pay for what you need, nothing more

Flexibility without risk

  • Scale up or down anytime
  • Adjust capacity commitments annually
  • Support hybrid and multi-cloud environments

Operational ease 

  • Unified management across environments
  • No disruptive hardware refresh cycles
  • Built for workload-based performance tiers

What makes it different?

  • True hybrid cloud experience across on-prem and public cloud
  • Granular performance tiers aligned to workload needs
  • Enterprise-grade data protection included (SnapMirror, SnapVault, anti-ransomware)
  • Predictable billing not tied to compression ratios

When should you bring it up?

Keystone is a strong fit when your customer:

  • Is planning a storage refresh
  • Wants to move from CapEx to OpEx
  • Needs more flexibility or scalability
  • Is managing hybrid or multi-cloud environments
  • Is frustrated with cost unpredictability

Quick conversation starter

"Are you confident you're only paying for the storage you actually use, or are you still over-provisioning to stay ahead?"

Next steps

  • Start the conversation
  • Position Keystone early in storage discussions
  • Use the Keystone TCO calculator to show real savings

Simple to buy. Simple to scale. Simple to manage. 
NetApp Keystone. It's not complicated. 

Resources

View Keystone resources 

Chris Dedmon

Chris Dedmon

NetApp Supplier Manager

Chris Dedmon has spent many years in various roles leading product development, marketing, operations and sales in the channel, all while working with partners. His experience developing solutions for partners is an asset for growing our partners' business. Chris began his career with Dell, moving to EDS in Dallas prior to entering distribution with Merisel driving Sun Microsystems products through the channel.
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