Embodiments of the present invention are directed to techniques for selecting a data path over which to exchange information between a client device and a storage system by making a selection between a file system server (NAS) data path type (a first data path type) and a direct (SAN) data path type (a second data path type) based on one or more adjustable path selection factors and/or information regarding components of the computer system. For example, a data path may be selected based on one or more performance characteristics of a computer system in which a path selection module is acting and/or any other suitable path selection factor.