Fibre Channel Interface Overview

Chapter 1 Before Configuring SN 5428-2 Storage Router Software

Fibre Channel Interface Overview

To apply zoning to a fabric, enable the appropriate zone set. When you enable (or “activate”) a zone set, the system compiles zone sets of the same name from all SN 5428-2s and switches in the fabric, and then redistributes this merged active zone set back to every SN 5428-2 and switch in the fabric. Therefore, every SN 5428-2 and switch in the fabric will have identical active zone sets.

The SN 5428-2 supports multiple zone sets, but only one zone set can be active in the fabric at any given time.

Each SN 5428-2, like other switches in the zoned FC switched fabric, has its own zoning database. The zoning database is made up of all aliases, zones, and zone sets that have been created on the SN 5428-2 or received from other switches in the fabric. When you modify aliases, zone or zone sets, the changes are immediately saved to the SN 5428-2 bootable configuration.

The Auto Save zoning configuration parameter controls whether zoning changes received from other SN 5428-2s or switches in the fabric are automatically saved to the SN 5428-2s zoning database.

See Chapter 5, “Configuring Fibre Channel Interfaces,” for more information about configuring the SN 5428-2 for FC fabric zoning.

Fibre Channel Interface Overview

The SN 5428-2 has an integrated switch component with Fibre Channel interfaces that support the following port types: E_Port, F_Port, FL_Port, G_Port, GL_Port, TL_Port, and donor port. The storage router supports a maximum of 7 FC Interswitch Link (ISL) hops.

The SN 5428-2 FC interfaces support GS-3 management server commands. This allows management of the SN 5428-2 integrated switch component through the Fibre Channel interfaces (in-band management). See the interface fc? ms-enablecommand in the Cisco SN 5400 Series Storage Router Command Reference for more information about enabling the FC interfaces for GS-3 commands.

See Chapter 5, “Configuring Fibre Channel Interfaces,” for more information about configuring FC ports.

Gigabit Ethernet Interface Overview

Each of the two 1-Gigabit Ethernet interfaces on the SN 5428-2 (GE 1 and GE 2) provide the following capabilities:

Multiple IP addresses per SCSI routing instance—allows IP hosts to connect to SCSI routing instances via one or more IP addresses. Each Gigabit Ethernet interface can be configured with up to 12 unique IP addresses, which provides a maximum of 24 unique IP addresses per SN 5428-2 Storage Router. If VLAN access is used, the maximum number of unique IP addresses per Gigabit Ethernet interface increases to 16. This provides a maximum of 32 unique IP addresses per

SN 5428-2 Storage Router when configured with VLAN.

Assignment of a secondary interface per SCSI routing instance—allows the same IP address to be assigned to each Gigabit Ethernet interface; one interface is assigned as primary and one interface is assigned as secondary. If the primary Gigabit Ethernet interface loses connection to the host and if the secondary connection is assigned and still connected, the IP address moves to the secondary Gigabit Ethernet interface, which then becomes active.

Assignment as an interface to an FCIP peer—allows assignment of an IP address as a primary

Gigabit Ethernet interface between an FCIP instance and an FCIP peer. Each SN 5428-2 can be configured with up to two FCIP instances, and each FCIP instance can be configured with one peer, for a maximum of two FCIP peers per SN 5428-2 Storage Router when configured for FCIP.

Cisco SN 5428-2 Storage Router Software Configuration Guide

 

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Cisco Systems SN 5428-2 manual Fibre Channel Interface Overview, Gigabit Ethernet Interface Overview, 1-23

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.