Dell PS-M4110 Technical Information download pdf (Page 10)

March 2013 Dell EqualLogic Configuration Guide v14.1 1-1

Introduction

With the Dell™ EqualLogic™ PS Series of storage arrays Dell provides a storage solution that delivers

the benefits of consolidated networked storage in a self-managing, iSCSI storage area network (SAN)

that is affordable and easy to use, regardless of scale. By eliminating complex tasks and enabling fast

and flexible storage provisioning, these solutions dramatically reduce the costs of storage acquisition

and ongoing operations.

To be able to leverage the advanced features provided by an EqualLogic array, a robust, standards-

compliant iSCSI storage area network (SAN) infrastructure must be created. While almost any industry

standard, enterprise class Ethernet switch can be used to connect hosts to the EqualLogic-based

virtual storage volumes, some switches, network interface controllers(NICs), iSCSI Host Bus Adapters

(HBAs), and iSCSI initiators can directly impact the overall performance of the SAN storage solution.

The

Dell EqualLogic Configuration Guide

is provided as an aid to help storage administrators

determine how best to build an iSCSI infrastructure for use within an EqualLogic SAN solution. This

document focuses on network configuration, host integration, and other topics that help to ensure a

smooth deployment with optimum PS Series SAN and FS Series NAS appliance performance.

Note: This version of the EqualLogic Configuration Guide (v13.3, September 2012)

introduces coverage of the EqualLogic PS-M4110 Blade Array. Unless otherwise stated,

the recommendations involving specific 10GbE solutions apply to the first generation

PS6010, the second generation PS4110, PS-M4110, and the PS6110.

Unless otherwise stated, recommendations in this document are applicable to both file and block

environments.

This document should be used strictly as a guide in planning an EqualLogic storage solution. It should

not be considered a statement of support for any specific configuration. Actual viability of any

configuration will depend on the capabilities of the individual components (switches, network

interface controllers, initiators, etc.) that make up the SAN infrastructure.

Audience

This configuration guide is intended for storage administrators, SAN/NAS system designers, storage

consultants, or anyone who is considering purchasing or has purchased EqualLogic PS Series storage

or FS Series Array appliances for use in a production storage area network. It is assumed that all

readers have experience in designing and/or administering a shared storage solution. Also, there are

some assumptions made in terms of familiarity with all current and possibly future Ethernet standards

as defined by the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) as well as all TCP/IP and iSCSI

standards as defined by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF).

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Dell PS-M4110 Technical Information Page 10