Dell Connectrix DS-7720B
The Dell Connectrix DS-7720B is a Gen 7 Fibre Channel 1U storage networking switch built to meet the throughput demands of NVMe-based all-flash storage arrays and high-density virtualization clusters. Providing up to 64 ports operating at 64Gb, 32Gb, and 16Gb speeds, it combines 56 SFP+ optical ports with two 2x64Gb QSFP-DD ports for high-density inter-switch linking. Gen 7 architecture introduces autonomous SAN self-healing capabilities, real-time congestion mitigation, and optical monitoring telemetry. Pre-owned buyers should verify installed port licenses and check power supply serial markings.
Also written as: Connectrix DS-7720B, Dell DS-7720B, Brocade G720 Dell OEM, DS-7720B 64Gb FC Switch
Specifications
| Brand | Dell |
|---|---|
| Family | Connectrix |
| Form factor | 1U rack |
| Released | Mar 2021 |
| Ports | 64x 64Gb/32Gb/16Gb/8Gb Fibre Channel ports (56x SFP28 ports + 2x QSFP-DD ports supporting 4x 64Gb breakout each) |
| Switching capacity | 4.096 Tbps full-duplex aggregate line-rate throughput |
| Power supply | Dual redundant hot-plug AC or DC power supply units |
Generations
- Previous generation: Dell Connectrix DS-6620B
Works together
How the Dell Connectrix DS-7720B connects to servers, storage and the network: 1 way, with the parts and products on each path.
Fibre Channel SAN
Match the speed: 16Gb and 32Gb FC HBAs, switches and array ports work together, and each generation also runs one or two speeds below its own (a 32Gb port runs at 16Gb and 8Gb).
Servers
Dell PowerEdge R660 1U rack
Dell PowerEdge R660xs 1U rack
Dell PowerEdge R6615 1U rack
Dell PowerEdge R6625 1U rack
Dell PowerEdge R760 2U rack
Dell PowerEdge R760xa 2U rack
Adapters for the server
540-BCMT Dell QLogic 2772 Dual Port 32Gb Fibre Channel PCIe Adapter
540-BDLM Dell Emulex LPe36002 Dual Port 64Gb Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter
540-BBUU Dell Emulex LPe31002 Dual Port 16Gb Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter
540-BBUV Dell QLogic 2692 Dual Port 16Gb Fibre Channel Host Bus Adapter
Storage
Dell PowerStore 5200T 2U rack
Dell PowerStore 500T 2U rack
Dell PowerStore 1000T 2U rack
Dell PowerStore 1000X 2U rack
Dell PowerStore 1200T 2U rack
Dell PowerStore 3000T 2U rack
Optics
Plan and size it
- Draw this setup in the topology planner mrplanb.com
- Add up rack power and space rack-density.com
- Virtualization storage Ledger: scored storage platforms mrplanb.com
- SAN transport and NVMe over FC for backup mrplanb.com
- Dell E-Lab Navigator (Dell interoperability) dell.com
Check compatibility with Dell
Before you buy, confirm the exact configuration against the vendor's own lists: firmware levels, operating systems, adapters and optics that Dell has tested with the Dell Connectrix DS-7720B.
- Compatibility Dell E-Lab Navigator (storage and SAN interoperability) (free vendor sign-in)
- Support Dell Support: drivers, manuals and service tag lookup
Equivalent models from other brands
Buying a used DS-7720B: what to check
Verify the enabled port license tier (base 24, 48, or full 64 ports). Check for intact optical dust covers and confirm that dual hot-swap fan and power supply modules operate quietly.
FAQ
Can the DS-7720B communicate with older 16Gb or 32Gb FC devices?
Yes, Gen 7 ports on the DS-7720B auto-negotiate to 64Gb, 32Gb, and 16Gb, ensuring backward compatibility with existing SAN infrastructure.
What management platform manages the DS-7720B?
It is managed via Brocade Fabric OS CLI, Web Tools GUI, or Dell SANnav Management Portal software.
Buying or selling DS-7720B?
New, refurbished or used. Tell us the quantity and condition and we connect you with a vetted reseller in your region, usually within one working day.
Sources
- Dell Connectrix DS-7720B Specification Sheet, checked 2026-10-27