This IBM Redbooks publication represents a compilation of best practices for configuring the IBM TotalStorage DS300 (iSCSI) and DS400 (Fibre). These workgroup storage subsystems for IBM eServer xSeries and BladeCenter servers are designed to provide an exceptional solution for workgroup storage applications such as file, print and Web serving, as well as, remote boot storage for diskless servers.

The book provides a conceptual framework for understanding the DS300 and DS400 in a Storage Area Network and includes recommendations, hints, and tips for the physical installation, cabling, and zoning. It shows:

* Supported configurations

* Proper use of the software and hardware initiators

* Array and Logical drive configurations to support maximum throughput

* DSM and MPIO usage

* Understanding failover and failback

* Best practices with installation (i.e., FC switches, BladeCenters, Ethernet switches)

* Single to dual upgrade

This book is intended for IBM technical professionals, Business Partners, and customers responsible for the planning, deployment, and maintenance of IBM TotalStorage DS300/DS400 products.

Part 1. Technical overview

Chapter 1. Storage Area Networks (SAN) overview

Chapter 2. iSCSI overview

Chapter 3. Components overview

Chapter 4. TotalStorage DS300 and DS400 management

Chapter 5. Performance and configuration considerations

Part 2. TotalStorage DS300

Chapter 6. TotalStorage DS300 sample configurations

Chapter 7. TotalStorage DS300 installation

Part 3. TotalStorage DS400

Chapter 8. TotalStorage DS400 example configurations

Chapter 9. TotalStorage DS400 installation

Appendix A. Command line interface reference

Appendix B. Network design considerations

Appendix C. How to get updates of code and documentation