BLADEOS 6.5.2 Application Guide

vNIC Groups

vNICs can be grouped together, along with uplink ports and trunks, as well as other ports that were defined as server ports but not connected to vNICs. Each vNIC group is essentially a separate virtual network within the switch. Elements within a vNIC group have a common logical function and can communicate with each other, while elements in different vNIC groups are separated.

BLADEOS 6.5 supports up to 32 independent vNIC groups.

To enforce group boundaries, each vNIC group is assigned its own unique VLAN. The vNIC group VLAN ID is placed on all vNIC group packets as an “outer” tag. As shown in Figure 18, the outer vNIC group VLAN ID is placed on the packet in addition to any regular VLAN tag assigned by the network, server, or hypervisor. The outer vNIC group VLAN is used only between the G8124 and the NIC.

Figure 18 Outer and Inner VLAN Tags

vNIC-Capable Server

Ports with

BLADE Switch

Ports without

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

vNICs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

vNICs

OS/Hypervisor

 

 

NIC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Regular

NIC attached outer

 

 

Switching uses outer tag;

Switch strips

 

 

 

VLAN ID

 

 

 

 

 

vNIC group VLAN ID

 

Ignores regular VLAN

outer tag

 

 

 

Outbound

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Packet

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outer tag sets vNIC;

 

 

Switching uses outer tag;

Switch adds outer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NIC strips outer tag

 

 

Ignores regular VLAN

vNIC group VLAN ID

 

 

 

Inbound

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Packet

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Within the G8124, all Layer 2 switching for packets within a vNIC group is based on the outer vNIC group VLAN. The G8124 does not consider the regular, inner VLAN ID (if any) for any VLAN-specific operation.

The outer vNIC group VLAN is removed by the NIC before the packet reaches the server OS or hypervisor, or by the switch before the packet egresses any switch port which does not need it for vNIC processing.

The VLAN configured for the vNIC group will be automatically assigned to member vNICs, ports, and trunks and should not be manually configured for those elements.

Note – Once a VLAN is assigned to a vNIC group, that VLAN is used only for vNIC purposes and is no longer available for configuration. Likewise, any VLAN configured for regular purposes cannot be configured as a vNIC group VLAN.

BMD00220, October 2010

Chapter 12: Virtual NICs ￿ 157

Page 157
Image 157
Blade ICE G8124-E manual VNIC Groups, Outer and Inner Vlan Tags

G8124-E, G8124 specifications

The Blade ICE G8124 is a cutting-edge networking solution designed for high-performance data center environments. It has emerged as a popular choice among organizations that require reliable and efficient network infrastructure to support their growing demands for bandwidth and low-latency connectivity.

One of the key features of the Blade ICE G8124 is its high port density. This networking device typically offers 24 ports of 10 Gigabit Ethernet, ensuring that businesses can connect numerous devices without requiring extensive physical space. The design is also scalable, accommodating future expansion as organizational needs grow.

Another significant aspect of the G8124 is its advanced switching capabilities. It utilizes a non-blocking architecture, enabling simultaneous data transmissions on all ports. This characteristic ensures that there is no bottleneck in the network traffic, providing the high performance needed in data-intensive applications.

The G8124 incorporates various technologies to enhance its functionalities. It supports Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, making it versatile for different networking needs. Additionally, it features comprehensive Quality of Service (QoS) settings that prioritize critical applications, such as VoIP and video streaming, ensuring smooth operation even under heavy loads.

In terms of security, the Blade ICE G8124 provides robust measures to protect the network. It supports features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs), port security, and VLANs, allowing administrators to segment the network and restrict unauthorized access. These security capabilities are vital in today’s landscape, where cyber threats are increasingly common.

Moreover, the G8124 offers excellent management features. It includes an intuitive user interface for easy configuration and monitoring of network performance. SNMP support allows integration with network management systems, providing administrators with insights needed to optimize their operations.

Power efficiency is also a hallmark of the Blade ICE G8124. It employs energy-saving technologies that reduce operational costs, an essential factor for environmentally-conscious organizations striving to minimize their carbon footprint.

In summary, the Blade ICE G8124 stands out with its high port density, advanced switching capabilities, robust security features, and efficient management options. This networking solution is designed to meet the demands of modern data centers, providing the performance, reliability, and scalability that organizations require. With its innovative technologies, the G8124 ensures that businesses can navigate the complexities of today's networking landscape effectively.