To change the load balance policy using Windows Server 2008 disk management:

1From the desktop of the host, right-click My Computer and click Manage to open the Computer Management dialog.

2Click Disk Management to show the list of virtual disks attached to the host.

3Right-click on the virtual disk for which you want to set the load balance policy, then click Properties.

From the MPIO tab, select the load balance policy that you want to set for this virtual disk.

Increasing Bandwidth With Multiple iSCSI Sessions

The PowerVault MD3200i series storage array in a duplex configuration supports two active/active asymmetric redundant controllers. Each controller has four 1 Gbps Ethernet ports that support iSCSI. The bandwidth of the four ports on the same controller can be aggregated to provide optimal performance. A host can be configured to simultaneously use the bandwidth of both the ports on a controller to access virtual disks owned by the controller. The multi-path failover driver that Dell provides for the MD3200i series storage array can be used to configure the storage array so that all ports are used for simultaneous I/O access. If the multi-path driver detects multiple paths to the same virtual disk through the ports on the same controller, it load-balances I/O access from the host across all ports on the controller.

Figure C-1 illustrates how the initiator can be configured to take advantage of the load balancing capabilities of the multi-path failover driver.

Appendix—Load Balancing

79

Page 78 Page 80
Page 79
Image 79
Dell MD3200i, MD3220i manual Increasing Bandwidth With Multiple iSCSI Sessions
Page 78 Page 80

MD3200i, MD3220i specifications

The Dell MD3220i and MD3200i are part of Dell's extensive line of modular storage solutions, designed to support organizations in optimizing their data management and scalability requirements. These models offer reliable performance and flexible features, making them suitable for various workloads including virtualization, cloud storage, and disaster recovery.

One of the standout features of the MD3220i and MD3200i is their support for iSCSI storage networking. By utilizing the Internet Small Computer Systems Interface (iSCSI) protocol, these systems provide organizations with a cost-effective way to connect their storage over existing network infrastructure, enabling efficient data transfers and management.

Both models are equipped with dual controllers that ensure high availability and failover capabilities, which are crucial for meeting uptime requirements in mission-critical environments. The dual controllers also facilitate load balancing and increase overall system performance, as they allow multiple paths to the storage, enhancing I/O performance.

Scalability is another key characteristic of the MD3220i and MD3200i. These storage arrays can be expanded to meet growing storage demands, supporting up to 240TB of raw capacity with up to 16 additional expansion enclosures. This flexibility allows organizations to start with a smaller configuration and grow their storage capabilities without a complete overhaul of the existing infrastructure.

The units also support multiple disk types, including traditional spinning disks, solid-state drives (SSDs), and a combination of both. This versatility enables users to tailor storage configurations to their specific performance and budgetary needs. Furthermore, the systems feature advanced data management technologies such as snapshots and remote replication, providing essential tools for data protection.

With their ease of management, the MD3220i and MD3200i are designed for straightforward configuration and operation. The intuitive management interfaces allow IT professionals to monitor performance, configure storage, and manage data effectively, ensuring businesses can maintain optimal system availability.

In summary, the Dell MD3220i and MD3200i are robust, scalable, and versatile storage solutions that cater to diverse organizational needs. Their integrated technologies, such as iSCSI support, dual controller architecture, and advanced data management features, make them an ideal choice for modern data centers looking to enhance storage capabilities while ensuring reliability and performance.
Top Page Image Contents