Chapter 4: Installing the Linux Drivers

Teaming with Channel Bonding

Statistics

Linux iSCSI

Offload

With the Linux drivers, you can team adapters together using the bonding kernel module and a channel bonding interface. For more information, see the Channel Bonding information in your operating system documentation.

Detailed statistics and configuration information can be viewed using the ethtool utility. See the ethtool man page for more information.

This section describes how to install and run Linux iSCSI applications.

The following recommendations apply to offloading Linux iSCSI programs:

ˆNot all Broadcom NetXtreme II adapters support iSCSI offload.

ˆThe iSCSI session will not recover after a hot remove and hot plug.

ˆThe iSCSI driver/firmware will not offload iSCSI connections onto a jumbo frame-enabled CNIC device.

ˆFor MPIO to work properly, iSCSI nopout should be enabled on each iSCSI session. Refer to open-iscsi documentation for procedures on setting up noop_out_interval and noop_out_timeout values.

ˆIn the scenario where multiple CNIC devices are in the system and the system is booted via Broadcom's iSCSI boot solution, ensure that the iscsi node under /etc/iscsi/nodes for the boot target is bound to the NIC that is used for booting.

See the following sections:

ˆ“Installing User Application - bnx2id” on page 66

ˆ“Installing Open iSCSI User Applications” on page 67

ˆ“Binding iSCSI Target to Broadcom NX2 iSCSI Transport Name” on page 68

ˆ“Making Connections to iSCSI Targets” on page 68

ˆ“Maximizing Offload iSCSI Connections” on page 69

Installing User Application - bnx2id

The bnx2id application should be installed under /sbin when bnx2i RPM package is installed. See “Installing the Source RPM Package” on page 52 for information. Run the bnx2id daemon before attempting to create iSCSI connections. The driver does not establish connections to the iSCSI target without the daemon's assistance.

bnx2id

The bnx2id daemon requires mknod and sh shell, which are standard on any regular server. For iSCSI boot using NetXtreme II offload support, binaries for mknod and sh need to be bundled into initrd image.

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Allied Telesis AT-2872SX Teaming with Channel Bonding Statistics Linux iSCSI Offload, Installing User Application bnx2id

AT-2872SX specifications

The Allied Telesis AT-2872SX is a high-performance, versatile networking switch designed specifically for the demands of modern network environments. With its compact form factor and robust feature set, it serves as an ideal solution for businesses looking to enhance their network infrastructure with reliability and efficiency.

One of the standout features of the AT-2872SX is its support for both Ethernet and Fast Ethernet technology, making it a flexible choice for organizations that require diverse network speeds. This switch is equipped with two 1000BASE-SX Fiber ports, allowing it to provide high-speed connectivity over fiber optics. This is particularly beneficial for applications that demand high bandwidth and low latency, such as video conferencing and large data transfers.

The AT-2872SX comes with a user-friendly interface that simplifies configuration and management. It supports standard Network Management Protocols such as SNMP, enabling remote management and monitoring of the switch. This feature is crucial for IT departments that aim to maintain optimal network performance without the need for constant physical oversight.

Another significant characteristic of the AT-2872SX is its Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities. This technology allows administrators to prioritize network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need without interruption. This is essential in multi-service networks where voice, data, and video traffic coexist.

In terms of security, the AT-2872SX offers multiple features to safeguard network integrity. It supports IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication, ensuring that only authorized devices can connect to the network. Additionally, it features VLAN support which segments traffic and enhances security by isolating sensitive data streams.

The hardware design of the AT-2872SX ensures durability and reliability, making it suitable for deployment in various environmental conditions. Its fanless operation not only provides silent performance but also contributes to reduced energy consumption, aligning with goals for sustainability in network infrastructure.

In conclusion, the Allied Telesis AT-2872SX switch stands out as a leading choice for organizations looking to bolster their network capabilities. Its comprehensive feature set, including high-speed fiber connectivity, robust management options, traffic prioritization, and built-in security measures, make it a valuable asset in any enterprise networking environment. As businesses increasingly rely on efficient and reliable networking solutions, the AT-2872SX remains a strong contender in the market.