Modular backup and retrieval system used in conjunction with a storage area network

A modular network storage system comprising:

• a plurality of client components, each configured to control storage operations for at least one of a plurality of computing devices;
• a storage area network (SAN) comprising a plurality of backup devices configured to provide block access to data stored thereon to the plurality of computing devices;
• a file processor for directing functions associated with the archival of data over the SAN, wherein the file processor is configured to provide a file system view of data stored on the plurality of backup devices to the plurality of computing devices;
• at least one media component communicatively coupled to one or more of the plurality of backup devices and the file processor, wherein the at least one media component is configured to control physical level archival functions of data between at least one of the plurality of client components and at least one of the plurality of backup devices in accordance with direction from the file processor;
• and
• a management component communicatively coupled to the plurality of computing devices and to the file processor, the management component being configured to initiate an archival type request through at least one of the plurality of client components based on one or more storage parameters,
• and wherein the file processor, in response to the archival type request, provides the direction to the at least one media component for directing the archival functions in accordance with the archival type request and wherein the at least one media component is configured to maintain an index of data stored on the plurality of backup devices.