vSphere Storage - ESXi 5.1 - Documentation - VMware

Modifying Fibre Channel Storage for 6
ESXi
This section discusses many of the storage devices supported in conjunction with VMware ESXi. For each
device, it lists the major known potential issues, points to vendor-specific information (if available), and
includes information from VMware knowledge base articles.
NOTE Information related to specific storage devices is updated only with each release. New information
might already be available. Consult the most recent Storage/SAN Compatibility, check with your storage array
vendor, and explore the VMware knowledge base articles.
This chapter includes the following topics:
n “Testing ESXi SAN Configurations,” on page 51
n “General Setup Considerations for Fibre Channel SAN Arrays,” on page 52
n “EMC CLARiiON Storage Systems,” on page 52
n “EMC Symmetrix Storage Systems,” on page 53
n “IBM System Storage DS4800 Storage Systems,” on page 53
n “IBM Systems Storage 8000 and IBM ESS800,” on page 55
n “HP StorageWorks Storage Systems,” on page 55
n “Hitachi Data Systems Storage,” on page 56
n “Network Appliance Storage,” on page 56
n “LSI-Based Storage Systems,” on page 56
Testing ESXi SAN Configurations
ESXi supports a variety of SAN storage systems in different configurations. Generally, VMware tests ESXi with
supported storage systems for basic connectivity, HBA failover, and so on.
Not all storage devices are certified for all features and capabilities of ESXi, and vendors might have specific
positions of support with regard to ESXi.
Basic connectivity Tests whether ESXi can recognize and operate with the storage array. This
configuration does not allow for multipathing or any type of failover.
HBA failover The server is equipped with multiple HBAs connecting to one or more SAN
switches. The server is robust to HBA and switch failure only.
Storage port failover The server is attached to multiple storage ports and is robust to storage port
failures and switch failures.
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