Technical information

June 2012 Dell EqualLogic Configuration Guide v13.2 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 (v13.1, March 2012) introduces coverage
of the EqualLogic PS4110 and PS6110 second generation 10GbE arrays.
Unless otherwise stated, the recommendations involving specific 10GbE solutions apply to both
the first generation PS6010 as well as the second generation PS4110 and 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.
1.1 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).