Computer system and method for transferring data between multiple peer-level storage units

A computer system and storage management method for routing data between peer-level storage units. The computer system includes a first storage unit (e.g., disk drive) and an intelligent controller connected to a storage area network. The intelligent controller is also connected to a second storage unit (e.g., tape drive). The computer system further includes a host (server and/or workstation) having an application module for generating and transmitting a command to the intelligent controller by way of the storage area network or a system network. In response to the transmitted command, the intelligent controller routes data between the first storage unit and the second storage unit using the storage area network while bypassing the host.