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Configuration: Device Mapper Multipath for Linux

Overview

The MD3600i Series storage array uses a Linux operating system software framework, known as Device Mapper (DM), to enable multipath capabilities on Linux Host Servers. The DM multipath functionality is provided by a combination of drivers and utilities. This chapter describes how to use those utilities to complete the process of enabling MD3600i Series storage array on a Linux system.

The Device Mapper technology replaces an earlier, proprietary technology, known as MPP. MPP was used to enable multipathing for the previous MD generation MD3000 Series storage arrays.

NOTE: The required Device Mapper software components are installed on a Linux host server by running the MD3600i Series resource media installation program on the server, and selecting either the Full or Host install option. For detailed installation procedures please refer to the Dell PowerVault MD3600i and MD3620i storage arrays Deployment Guide.

Benefits of using DM Multipath include:

Detects path failure and re-routes I/O to other available paths

Revalidates failed paths after path restoration

Utilizes multiple available paths to maximize performance

Reconfigures path usage based on path states and error conditions

Unifies multiple device nodes into a single logical multipath device node

Indentifies a new multipathed LU and automatically configures a new multipath node

Provides device name persistency for DM devices under /dev/mapper/

Configuration: Device Mapper Multipath for Linux

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Dell MD3600I, MD3620I owner manual Configuration Device Mapper Multipath for Linux, 185