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Dell SAN Foundations Online Training Course
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Index
Course Overview
SAN Introduction
SAN Architecture
Interface
Fibre Channel Concepts
Topologies

Hardware Components
Host Bus Adapters
Media/Connectors
Switches
GBICS
Storage Devices
Bridges
Tape Devices
Rack Mounting
Environmental Concerns

Software Components
LUN Masking
SAN Management
Data Management
Clustering

Section Review
SAN Implementation
Course Review
Course Feedback
Contact Dell

SAN Architecture

Introduction

A SAN comprises specific hardware and software working in concert. This section will introduce the architecture of a SAN. The Fibre Channel interface will be introduced and a review of RAID and clustering will be presented. The hardware and software components are critical in SAN operations and will be discussed in detail.

Section Objectives

After completing this module, you will be able to:
  • Describe the Fibre Channel interface and its advantages compared to traditional SCSI bus implementations
  • Describe the purpose of a Host Bus Adapter in a SAN
  • Describe the various types of cables and connectors used in a SAN
  • Describe the role of a switch in a SAN
  • Describe the purpose of a GBIC in a SAN
  • Describe the purpose of storage devices in a SAN
  • Describe the purpose of bridges in a SAN
  • Describe the purpose of tape drives, libraries, and autoloaders in a SAN
  • Describe the use of racks in a SAN, including best practices to be followed
  • Describe the environmental concerns inherent in building a SAN, including rack, ceiling, and floor guidelines
  • Define LUN masking and its purpose in a SAN
  • Describe the role of SAN Management software
  • Describe the role of Data Management software
  • Define clustering and describe its purpose and benefits

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