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Dell MD3600f Required Switch Zoning Configurations, Zoning Guidelines for Remote Replication, 182

Models: MD3620F MD3600f

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Required Switch Zoning Configurations

NOTE: A limited set of Fibre Channel switches are supported by the storage array. For a complete list of supported switches and their required driver, BIOS and firmware levels, see the Configuring Fibre Channel with the Dell MD3600f-Series Storage Array.

Due to potential restrictions at the host level, remote replication configurations must contain Fibre Channel switches. Fibre Channel switches must be zoned so that a single host adapter accesses only one RAID controller module in a storage array. Additionally, all zone configurations should specify separate zones for ports that are reserved for remote replication functions.

NOTE: Do not zone the uplink port (E_port) that connects (cascades) switches within a fabric.

Switch zoning configurations are typically set using the switch management software provided by the Fibre Channel switch vendor. This software is either included with the switch itself, or downloaded from the vendor's website.

Zoning Guidelines for Remote Replication

Enabling remote replication on your storage array automatically dedicates one port per RAID controller exclusively to replication. These dedicated ports, Port 3 on RAID controller 0 and Port 3 on RAID controller 1, must be in different zones on the Fibre Channel switch. Generally, switch zoning should be established so that:

•All RAID Controller 0 Fibre Channel Port 3s are in a common zone.

•All RAID Controller 1 Fibre Channel Port 3s are in a common zone, but separately zoned from RAID Controller 0 ports.

•Host Fibre Channel access ports are in separate zones from those established for remote replication.

Switch Cascading

When two or more Fibre Channel switches are cascaded, the switch management software combines the ports for all of the switches that are linked.

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Configuration: Premium Feature— Remote Replication

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MD3620F, MD3600f specifications

Dell's MD3620F and MD3600F storage arrays are designed for businesses seeking dependable, high-performance storage solutions tailored to meet the demands of modern data management. These models offer a blend of scalability, efficiency, and advanced features, making them well-suited for a range of applications, from virtual environments to critical database operations.

One of the primary features of the MD3620F and MD3600F is their support for a hybrid storage architecture. This approach allows organizations to combine flash storage with traditional hard disk drives (HDDs) to optimize performance and cost. The MD3620F focuses heavily on all-flash configurations, delivering exceptional speed and lower latency, ideal for I/O-intensive workloads.

Scalability is another hallmark of these storage solutions. The MD3600F allows users to scale up to 120 drives, providing robust capacity to meet growing data needs. The MD3620F is engineered for environments where data availability and speed are paramount, with support for high IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second) and consistent performance under stress.

In terms of data management, both systems integrate with Dell’s proprietary software, which enhances operational efficiency through features like automated tiering. This technology optimizes data placement between different storage types based on access frequency, ensuring that hot data is readily available while reducing costs associated with less critical data.

Reliability is crucial for businesses that depend on their storage systems. The MD3620F and MD3600F come equipped with advanced data protection mechanisms, such as RAID support, which safeguards against data loss, and snapshot capabilities that provide point-in-time copies of data. Moreover, these solutions include hot-swappable components, ensuring minimal downtime for maintenance and repairs.

Connectivity is also a strong suit of these storage arrays. They support multiple connectivity options, including SAS and iSCSI, allowing for flexible integration into existing IT infrastructures. This adaptability enhances their appeal to a wide range of enterprise environments.

In summary, the Dell MD3620F and MD3600F stand out as robust storage solutions with a combination of hybrid and all-flash configurations, scalability, advanced data management tools, and enhanced reliability features. These characteristics make them ideal for organizations looking to enhance their data storage capabilities while maintaining high performance and efficiency.