Reference Guide

iSCSI Optimization | 385
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iSCSI Optimization
iSCSI Optimization is supported on platforms
This chapter describes how to configure internet small computer system interface (iSCSI) optimization,
which enables quality-of-service (QoS) treatment for iSCSI traffic. The topics covered in this chapter
include:
• iSCSI Optimization Overview
• Default iSCSI Optimization Values
• iSCSI Optimization Prerequisites
• Configuring iSCSI Optimization
• Displaying iSCSI Optimization Information
iSCSI Optimization Overview
iSCSI is a TCP/IP-based protocol for establishing and managing connections between IP-based storage
devices and initiators in a storage area network (SAN).
iSCSI optimization functions as follows on the , except as noted.
• Auto-detection of EqualLogic storage arrays — The switch detects any active EqualLogic array
directly attached to its ports.
• Manual configuration to detect Compellent storage arrays where auto-detection is not supported. (This
feature is available on platforms )
• Automatic configuration of switch ports after detection of storage arrays.
Figure 18-1 shows iSCSI optimization between servers and a storage array in which a stack of three
switches connect installed servers (iSCSI initiators) to a storage array (iSCSI targets) in a SAN network.
iSCSI optimization running on the master switch is configured to use dot1p priority-queue assignments to
ensure that iSCSI traffic in these sessions receives priority treatment when forwarded on stacked switch
hardware.