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ONTAP MetroCluster

Differences between ONTAP Mediator and MetroCluster Tiebreaker

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Beginning with ONTAP 9.7, you can use either the ONTAP Mediator-assisted automatic unplanned switchover (MAUSO) in the MetroCluster IP configuration or you can use the MetroCluster Tiebreaker software. It is not required to use the MAUSO or Tiebreaker software; however, if you choose to not use either of these services, you must perform a manual recovery if a disaster occurs.

The different MetroCluster configurations perform automatic switchover under different circumstances:

  • MetroCluster FC configurations using the AUSO capability (not present in MetroCluster IP configurations)

    In these configurations, AUSO is initiated if controllers fail but the storage (and bridges, if present) remain operational.

  • MetroCluster IP configurations using the ONTAP Mediator service (ONTAP 9.7 and later)

    In these configurations, MAUSO is initiated in the same circumstances as AUSO, as described above, and also after a complete site failure (controllers, storage, and switches).

    Learn about how the ONTAP Mediator supports automatic unplanned switchover.

  • MetroCluster IP or FC configurations using the Tiebreaker software in active mode

    In these configurations, the Tiebreaker initiates unplanned switchover after a complete site failure.

    Before using the Tiebreaker software, review the MetroCluster Tiebreaker Software installation and configuration

Interoperability of ONTAP Mediator with other applications and appliances

You cannot use any third-party applications or appliances that can trigger a switchover in combination with ONTAP Mediator. In addition, monitoring a MetroCluster configuration with MetroCluster Tiebreaker software is not supported when using ONTAP Mediator.