A persistent memory storage system and method of operating. The storage system is embodied as memory module (e.g., a DIMM or PCIe card) in a host server and accessible via a first access path to/from the memory module. After a power failure at the host server, any authorized device, e.g., a second server, is configured to access and extract the retained memory at the failed host server via a secondary network-based access path (e.g., Ethernet connection). Power may be supplied to the memory module of the failed host server via a Power-over-Ethernet switch to support the secondary access path. A Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) switch may provide the necessary power to the memory module when power is unavailable from the host server and when any temporary power source is exhausted. A redundant power source and/or backup battery may supply the PoE switch. Such power sources and/or batteries can thereby provide backup power.