Requirements for switch zoning in a MetroCluster configuration with array LUNs

When using switch zoning in a MetroCluster configuration with array LUNs, you must ensure that certain basic requirements are followed.

The requirements for switch zoning in a MetroCluster configuration with array LUNs are as follows:

  • The MetroCluster configuration must follow the single-initiator to single-target zoning scheme.

    Single-initiator to single-target zoning limits each zone to a single FC initiator port and a single target port.

  • The FC-VI ports must be zoned end-to-end across the fabric.

  • Sharing of multiple initiator ports with a single target port can cause performance issues.

    Similarly, sharing of multiple target ports with a single initiator port can cause performance issues.

  • You must have performed a basic configuration of the FC switches used in the MetroCluster configuration.

    Configuring the Cisco or Brocade FC switches manually

Shared initiator and shared target support for MetroCluster configuration with array LUNs

Being able to share a given FC initiator port or target ports is useful for organizations that want to minimize the number of initiator or target ports used. For example, an organization that expects low I/O usage over an FC initiator port or target ports might prefer to share FC initiator port or target ports instead of dedicating each FC initiator port to a single target port.

However sharing of initiator or target ports can adversely affect performance.

Related information

How to support Shared Initiator and Shared Target configuration with Array LUNs in a MetroCluster environment