Sizing Inter-Switch Connections - Dell PS4000 Configuration Manual

Note: A multi-stack SAN infrastructure as described in this section may provide added
reliability to the SAN environment. But, it may also introduce additional latency and the
potential for lower throughput. The SAN designer will have to carefully consider the
performance and reliability implications.
Figure 10 Using a LAG to Interconnect Switch Stacks
4.3.2

Sizing Inter-Switch Connections

Use the guidelines in Table 16 as a starting point for estimating Inter-switch connection sizes.
Connection Speeds
1GbE switches attached to
1GbE array controllers
10GbE switches attached to
10GbE array controllers
1GbE switches connecting to
10GbE switches in a mixed speed SAN
Table 16: Switch Interconnect Design Guidelines
Dell EqualLogic Configuration Guide v11.3
Interconnection Guidelines
1-5 arrays: 1Gb of IST bandwidth per active array
controller port (up to the aggregated maximum
bandwidth of the IST.
6+ arrays: Use 1-5 array rule, then add 1Gb of additional
bandwidth for each array added
1-5 arrays: 20 – 30Gb of IST bandwidth between each
switch
6+ arrays: At least 6Gb of IST bandwidth per array
between each switch
Actual requirements will vary. For more details see Section
4.6, Integrating 1GbE and 10GbE SANs
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