Configuring the Active Directory Service

To configure the active directory service:

1Select System ManagementAuthenticationSystem Identity.

The PowerVault NX3500 Identity page is displayed. This page shows the current configuration and whether PowerVault NX3500 is already joined to an Active Directory domain.

2Click Save Changes to save the active directory parameters.

NOTE: Click the Revert button to restore previously saved parameters.

Through the Advanced Configuration option, you can specify a domain controller to override the default controller selected by the system.

Network Configuration Overview

This section describes how to configure the PowerVault NX3500 to best fit your network.

Accessing the System

To access the system you need to define an IP address your clients can access. It is recommended to also add this IP address to your DNS server so that clients can access the system via a name in addition to an IP address.

NOTE: The Client Access VIP is configured during initial configuration using the PowerVault NX3500 Configuration Utility. You can see the address you configured by going to the NAS Manager System ManagementNetworkSubnets. Click Primary at the bottom of the page to see the client access VIP labeled VIP address.

Since the system's architecture is a cluster of two controllers, this IP address is a virtual IP address (VIP) which serves every controller in the cluster. This allows clients to access the system as a single unit, enables the system to perform load balancing between controllers, and additionally allows services to continue even if a controller fails. Clients benefit from the system's high availability and high performance irrespective of the system's architecture.

Managing the PowerVault NX3500

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Dell NX3500 manual Network Configuration Overview, Configuring the Active Directory Service, Accessing the System, 133

NX3500 specifications

The Dell NX series, including the NX3610, NX3600, and NX3500, represents a robust and efficient solution for organizations seeking to optimize their storage solutions. These storage appliances are designed to meet the growing needs of data-driven businesses, providing a comprehensive platform that integrates software and hardware for optimal performance.

The Dell NX3610 is a high-performance storage solution that boasts an advanced dual-controller architecture. This model supports enhanced scalability and redundancy, ensuring that organizations can handle increasing data loads effortlessly. It is built for faster data access with a range of connectivity options, including 10GbE and iSCSI, enabling seamless integration into diverse IT environments. The NX3610 supports advanced file sharing capabilities, making it ideal for businesses requiring efficient collaboration and data access across multiple platforms. Furthermore, with features like snapshot and replication, users can ensure data integrity and security, minimizing downtime in case of system failures.

The NX3600, while slightly smaller in capacity compared to the NX3610, still delivers formidable performance and flexibility. It is designed to cater to mid-sized businesses that need a reliable and cost-effective storage solution. The NX3600 features a single-controller architecture, making it easier to manage and deploy in smaller IT environments. It offers support for various storage protocols, including NFS and CIFS, which are essential for organizations looking to support diverse application workloads. Its easy-to-use management interface makes it simple for IT teams to monitor and configure settings, ensuring optimal performance with minimal effort.

The NX3500 serves as an entry-level model within the NX series, specifically targeted at small to medium-sized businesses. It combines affordability with essential features needed for efficient data storage and sharing. The NX3500 is equipped with a user-friendly interface and includes support for both file-based and block-based storage, offering flexibility for diverse workloads. Moreover, the appliance features integrated backup solutions, which are crucial for ensuring data safety and compliance. Users will also appreciate its robust data deduplication and compression capabilities that significantly reduce storage costs by minimizing the amount of data stored.

In summary, the Dell NX3610, NX3600, and NX3500 are engineered to cater to various business sizes and storage demands. With their sophisticated technologies, including dual-controller systems, rich protocol support, and user-friendly management features, these appliances deliver reliable, scalable, and efficient storage solutions for any organization looking to enhance its data management capabilities.