Hp D2D Backup Systems And Fibre Channel; Fibre Channel Topologies; Zoning - HP StorageWorks D2D100 - Backup System User Manual

5 HP D2D Backup Systems and
Fibre Channel
In this chapter:
• "Fibre Channel
• "Zoning" on page 59
• "Fibre Channel
• "Fibre Channel
• "Fibre Channel

Fibre Channel topologies

The HP D2D Backup System supports a switched fabric fibre channel topology.
A switched fabric topology allows nodes to talk directly to each other through temporarily established
direct connections with a library on the HP D2D Backup System. This provides simultaneous bandwidth
for each communication between nodes. Because of this, switched fabric topologies provide significantly
more performance and scalability than arbitrated loop topologies.
Switched fabric configurations are implemented with Fibre Channel switches. Switches may be cascaded
or meshed together to form larger fabrics.
NOTE:
Other topologies will be supported at a later date. Please refer to
http://www.hp.com/go/ebs

Zoning

Due to complexities in multi-hosting tape devices on SANs, it is best to make use of zoning tools
to help keep the backup/restore environment simple and less susceptible to the effects of changing
or problematic SANs.
Zoning provides a way for servers, disk arrays, and tape libraries to only see what hosts and targets they
need to see and use. The benefits of zoning include but are not limited to:
• Limiting unnecessary discoveries on the HP D2D Backup System
• Reducing stress on the HP D2D Backup System and its library devices by polling agents
• Reducing the time it takes to debug and resolve anomalies in the backup/restore environment
• Reducing the potential for conflict with untested third-party products
Zoning may not always be required for configurations that are already small or simple. Typically the
bigger the SAN is, the more zoning is needed. HP recommends the following for determining how
and when to use zoning.
• Small fabric (16 ports or less)—may not need zoning.
• Small to medium fabric (16 - 128 ports)—use host-centric zoning. Host-centric zoning is
implemented by creating a specific zone for each server or host, and adding only those storage
elements to be utilized by that host. Host-centric zoning prevents a server from detecting any other
devices on the SAN or including other servers, and it simplifies the device discovery process.
topologies" on page 59
connection" on page 60
(Configuration)" on page 61
(Status)" on page 61
for the latest information.
http://www.hp.com/go/connect
D2D Backup SystemHP D2D4004 and HP D2D4009
or
59