EXHIBIT 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form S-8 of our
reports dated July 7, 2005, relating to the financial statements and financial statement schedule
of Network Appliance, Inc. and managements report on the effectiveness of internal control over
financial reporting appearing in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Network Appliance, Inc. for the
year ended April 30, 2005.
/s/ Deloitte and Touche LLP
Deloitte and Touche LLP
San Jose, California
August 31, 2005