| Q1. |
What is a converged network switch? |
| A1. |
A converged network switch allows multiple networks to utilize the same I/O links to provide a common set of connectivity resources to transport information. In this case users can connect servers to provide LAN, SAN and cluster communication over a single link. |
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| Q2. |
Does this switch require me to replace my existing Fibre Channel SAN? |
| A2. |
No. This switch is intended to operate with and in parallel to existing FC SAN fabrics and Ethernet LAN environments. Initially FCoE will be primarily be used for Server access to FC storage networks using 10Gb Ethernet links to the Nexus switch and the Nexus is then connected to the FC SAN and associated storage devices via ISL connections to FC core switches. |
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| Q3. |
Does this Switch support my existing FC HBAs? |
| A3. |
No. This switch is designed to connect hosts using Converged Network Adapters (CNAs). CNAs allow servers to utilize a single adapter to perform both NIC and HBA functions over a 10Gb lossless Ethernet link. This significantly reduces the servers slots used, power and cooling, cabling, transceivers, Software licenses, maintenance, management costs and other capital and operational expenses. |
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| Q4. |
What is FCoE? |
| A4. |
FCoE Stands for Fibre Channel over Ethernet. This is a new industry standard protocol that allows the encapsulation of standard Fibre Channel traffic inside an Ethernet frame. This allows both Ethernet and standard FC to be transported transparently over a lossless Ethernet link using 10Gb Ethernet technology. |
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