7–Configuring FCoE in a Windows Environment
Boot from SAN
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Single-Path Configuration
A single-path configuration is the simplest configuration for boot-from-SAN for
QLogic 8100 Series Adapters. The single-path configuration consists of a single
adapter port connected to a converged networking switch (FCoE switch), which is
then connected to the storage controller (SP) of a storage array. A single-path
configuration does not use redundant components, and therefore, is not
recommended for mission-critical servers.
However, single-path configuration does offer some degree of fault tolerance
because the QLogic 8100 Series Adapter can configure alternate boot LUNs. As
shown in Figure 7-6, if the primary boot device (LUN1) fails, or if it is not available
at boot time, the QLogic adapter automatically tries to boot from the alternate boot
device (LUN2). Up to four alternate boot devices can be configured, which
provides failover protection by redirecting the boot device without user
intervention.
Figure 7-6. Single-Path Topology
Server
Adapter Port 1
Converged
Networking Switch
Controller A
Storage Array
LUN 1 Primary Boot Device
LUN 2 Alternate Boot Device
LUN 3 Alternate Boot Device
LUN 4 Alternate Boot Device