NOTE: Before running the NAS Manager Configuration Wizard, create two hosts (one per controller) in the host group you created earlier. Enter the IQNs provided in the configuration results into the Host Port Identifier field for each controller. See "Define Two Hosts" on page 62. After defining hosts, proceed to the NAS Manager Configuration Wizard.

Define Two Hosts

Define the hosts as follows:

1From the PowerVault MDSM for the array you plan to use for your NAS storage, perform one of the following actions:

Select Mappings and then Define Host.

Select the Setup tab, and click Manually Define Hosts.

Select the Mappings tab. Right-click the Host Group that you created (See “Creating a Host Group” on page 51.) in the Topology pane, and select Define Host from the pop-up menu.

The Specify Host Name window is displayed.

2In Host name, enter a host name (for example, NX3500-Controller-0).

NOTE: The host name should be alphanumeric characters with the only special character "-".

3Select Add by creating a new host port identifier. In the New host port identifier field, enter the IQN from the configuration results of the PowerVault NASCU and enter a user label for the host port identifier and click Add.

NOTE: The user label cannot be the same as the host name, it should be

based off the host name. For example: NX3500-Controller-0-IQN.

4Click Next.

The Specify Host Type window is displayed.

5In Host type, select Linux as the operating system for the host. The Host Group Question window is displayed.

6In this window, select Yes.

This host shares access to the same virtual disks with other hosts.

7Click Next.

62

Setting Up Your PowerVault NX3500 Solution

Page 62
Image 62
Dell NX3500 manual Define Two Hosts, Select Mappings and then Define Host

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.