Abstract: A data management system consistent with the present invention communicates with a client terminal. The system includes a virtual address connection defining a network address to which the client terminal sends a request reflecting a function to be performed. The system also includes a plurality of server devices, each capable of performing the server function requested by the client terminal. Each of the plurality of server devices has access to a common storage device. A load balancer, associated with the virtual address connection, receives the request and selects one of the plurality of server devices to perform the requested function. The load balancer routes the request to the selected server device to perform the requested function, and the selected server device accesses the common storage device to perform the request.