Final answer:
The statement is false; a SAN is a network of storage devices, not a single computer, providing block-level storage to servers, not file-based storage services.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that a storage area network (SAN) is essentially a network-connected computer dedicated to providing file-based data storage services to other network devices is false. A SAN provides block-level storage and is more accurately described as a network of storage devices that connect to servers, not merely a single computer. It allows for the consolidation of storage resources and provides high-performance access to data across networks. SANs are vital in enterprise environments where large volumes of data require dedicated and efficient storage solutions.