Configuring Boot From iSCSI (BFi) Using Broadcom™ NetXtreme Network Adapter on a System That is Configured With a Local Disk

This section provides information about configuring a Dell™ PowerEdge™ system to boot from an Internet Small Computer System Interface (iSCSI) solution using the Broadcom® NetXtreme® network adapter when the base system has a local disk.

To create the operating system base image, you must initially configure the PowerEdge system with a local hard drive. After the operating system image is created and is cloned to the iSCSI Logical Unit Number (LUN), the PowerEdge system does not require a local hard drive for booting.Before implementing a boot from iSCSI LUN:

See "Additional Information" on page 53 and the Broadcom iSCSI Boot User’s Guide.

Configure IP addresses for the iSCSI ports on ton the Dell PowerVault™ MD3000i storage array.

NOTE: Throughout this document, the term host refers to the PowerEdge system on which you configure Boot From iSCSI (BFi). The terms iSCSI LUN and iSCSI target refer to the LUN in the Dell PowerVault MD3000i Integrated solution from which you perform the boot.

Instructions to Configure BFi for Broadcom NIC

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Dell MD3000I manual Instructions to Configure BFi for Broadcom NIC

MD3000I specifications

The Dell MD3000i is a high-performance storage solution designed to meet the demanding needs of businesses requiring reliable and scalable storage systems. Part of the Dell PowerVault series, the MD3000i offers a robust platform that supports both iSCSI and direct-attach connectivity options, making it versatile enough to fit various IT environments.

One of the primary features of the MD3000i is its ability to support multiple RAID configurations, including RAID 0, 1, 5, 10, 50, and 60, which ensures data protection and performance optimization. This flexibility allows organizations to tailor their storage setup based on their specific needs, whether prioritizing speed or redundancy.

The system supports up to 15 expansion enclosures, which allows users to scale their storage capacity significantly. The MD3000i can accommodate up to 192TB of raw storage when fully configured, making it suitable for environments with large amounts of data. Additionally, the modular design of the MD3000i means that businesses can easily add drives as needed, thereby reducing upfront costs.

In terms of performance, the MD3000i features hot-swappable drives, helping minimize downtime during maintenance and upgrades. This design philosophy extends to other components as well, allowing for easier management and greater efficiency. The system is also equipped with dual active controllers that provide failover capabilities, ensuring high availability for mission-critical applications.

Another significant aspect of the Dell MD3000i is its integration with various storage management software options, which allow for simplified administration and monitoring. Features such as snapshots and volume cloning aid in data protection and recovery processes, providing additional layers of security for critical information.

Moreover, the MD3000i supports seamless integration with existing server infrastructures and virtualization platforms, enhancing its appeal for organizations looking to modernize their data storage without complete overhauls of their systems. Its compatibility with multiple operating systems and environments makes it a flexible choice for companies of all sizes.

In summary, the Dell MD3000i stands out for its scalability, performance, and reliability in data storage. With features that promote ease of management and strong data protection mechanisms, it is an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance their storage solutions in a cost-effective manner.