SCSI Routing Overview

Chapter 1 Before Configuring SN 5428-2 Storage Router Software

•LUN Trespass feature—provides a LUN failover feature for selected storage arrays that operate on the active/passive port model. When enabled, the trespass feature provides a redundant path from the storage router to the storage array by allowing the storage router to detect a path failure to a storage array port and perform the necessary operations to fail LUNs over to the other port on the storage array without using any multi-path software.

•TCP Window Tuning—provides the ability to maximize bandwidth across the network by automatically setting the local TCP receive window size to the remote TCP receive window size without user intervention

•A command-line interface (CLI) and a web-based GUI—provides user interfaces for configuration and maintenance of an SN 5428-2

SCSI routing provides IP hosts with access to FC storage devices as if the storage devices were directly attached to the hosts, with access to devices being managed primarily in the SN 5428-2 Storage Router. An iSCSI target is an arbitrary name for a group of physical storage devices. The iSCSI targets are created and mapped to physical storage devices attached to the SN 5428-2. The storage router presents the iSCSI targets to IP hosts as if the physical storage devices were directly attached to the hosts. (See Figure 1-4.) With SCSI routing, storage devices are not aware of each IP host; the storage devices are aware of the SN 5428-2 and respond to it as if it were one FC host.

Figure 1-4 SCSI Routing Overview

FC storage

IP hosts

Cisco SN 5428-2

An IP host accesses a storage

device as if it were directly

attached to the storage device.

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To configure an SN 5428-2 Storage Router for SCSI routing, you should have a basic understanding of the following concepts:

•Routing SCSI Requests and Responses, page 1-5

•Basic Network Structure, page 1-6

•SCSI Routing Mapping and Access Control, page 1-6

•Available Instances of SCSI Routing, page 1-9

Note Along with FC storage, FC host connections and FC switch connections are allowed; however, most of the illustrations in this manual show only storage connections for the purpose of describing the

SN 5428-2 Storage Router features.

Cisco SN 5428-2 Storage Router Software Configuration Guide

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SN 5428-2 specifications

Cisco Systems SN 5428-2 is a highly versatile and advanced network storage solution designed to meet the demands of data center environments. This robust storage appliance integrates cutting-edge technologies to provide high performance, reliability, and scalability, making it an ideal choice for organizations looking to enhance their data management capabilities.

One of the main features of the SN 5428-2 is its high-density architecture, which allows for efficient utilization of space while providing ample storage capacity. The system supports multiple drive configurations, including HDDs and SSDs, enabling users to tailor their storage solutions based on performance needs and budget constraints. With a significant amount of raw capacity available, organizations can effortlessly handle large volumes of data and support intensive workloads.

The SN 5428-2 boasts advanced data protection technologies, ensuring that critical information is safeguarded against loss or corruption. Features like RAID support provide redundancy and fault tolerance, while snapshot and cloning capabilities offer quick recovery options in case of data breaches or system failures. Additionally, built-in encryption features help protect sensitive data both at rest and in transit.

The appliance incorporates state-of-the-art networking capabilities as well. With support for various network protocols, including iSCSI and Fibre Channel, the SN 5428-2 can seamlessly integrate into existing infrastructures. This adaptability allows for easy connection with different servers and storage systems, facilitating a more cohesive and efficient operational environment.

Furthermore, the SN 5428-2 is designed with scalability in mind. Organizations can start with a basic configuration and expand as their storage needs grow by adding additional drives or connecting more appliances. This flexibility ensures that businesses can continue to meet their evolving data demands without the need for complete system overhauls.

Management and monitoring of the SN 5428-2 are simplified through a user-friendly interface that provides real-time insights into system performance, capacity utilization, and health status. Administrators can easily configure and manage storage resources, making operational tasks more efficient.

In summary, Cisco Systems SN 5428-2 stands out in the realm of storage solutions by combining high density, robust data protection, advanced networking capabilities, and remarkable scalability. Its thoughtful design and features make it an essential tool for organizations looking to enhance their data storage infrastructure and improve overall performance. With its reliable and efficient performance, the SN 5428-2 is well-suited for a wide array of data center applications.