Expandable Linux Based RAID array

[mprog]

I've been using fibre channel storage hardware for many years. I typically setup hardware RAID arrays which I format as one single device then use filer heads to control the shares.

At this stage, I want to try something new.
It's got to be flexible in terms of being able to have full RAID safety but also be very expandable.

I've looked at several projects which seem to offer solutions but many of them appear to be overly complex compared to what I'm already using.

Some of the things I'd like to do.

I've read that a Linux software RAID array is actually faster than a hardware based one. I've always thought it was the other way around.

I want to use simple Linux servers such as chassis with 16 to 24 (or more) drives where I can add drives and expand the array as needed. Either in one server or across multiples.

I need to be able to mirror or snapshot so that I always have access to a backup instantly when something bad happens.

I 'think' these are pretty basic requirements but am not sure what is out there for Linux.

Thank you for any help/input you can offer.

I know about MDADM and other such tools but am looking for more of a management solution as well. I played with OpenFiler at one point, haven't in some time, maybe something along those lines. However, I seem to recall that OF would be for one box, not multiples.

Even better would be to fill chassis like rackable systems with 16/24 drives, then use some sort of fibre channel target device, then I could continue using my filer heads. I'll post another thread on that.

Much appreciated.

Mike