Before You Begin - Dell PowerVault MD3600i Getting Started Manual

Before You Begin

Before setting up your Dell PowerVault MD36xxi storage array, you must
consider certain best practices to ensure that your storage array operates at
maximum efficiency and offers full redundancy (if required).
• The PowerVault MD36xxi is a 10GBase-T product that requires a
10GBase-T capable infrastructure that consists of Category 6 or higher
cables, 10GBase-T capable patch panels, and switches.
• Existing 1GBase-T infrastructures can be used either through a 10GBase-T
switch, that interconnects the 10GBase-T network, or by manually
configuring the iSCSI ports to run at 1GBase-T speeds. You can also
use the Modular Disk Configuration Utility (MDCU) to configure
the port speeds. For more information about MDCU, see "Installing the
MD Storage Software" on page 16.
NOTE:
configured manually.
• Throughout the network, always use a Category 6 (or higher) Ethernet cable.
• It is recommended that you use a dedicated IP SAN for iSCSI data
transmission. Management traffic can be isolated on a separate
management network.
• Complete the iSCSI configuration worksheet before configuring iSCSI.
See "Completing the iSCSI Worksheet" on page 7. This worksheet gathers
physical network information in a single source.
• After completing the iSCSI worksheet, draw the configuration before
setting up the solution.
• Always configure redundant iSCSI data paths to provide alternate paths to
and from the host server should one of the data paths become disabled.
Auto-negotiation is not supported and the operation speed must be
Getting Started With Your System
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