Home › Works together

Fibre Channel SAN: server, HBA, FC switch and storage array

A Fibre Channel SAN gives servers block storage over a network that carries nothing else. Each server gets a Fibre Channel host bus adapter (HBA), usually two ports, and each port goes to a different FC switch so a switch failure never cuts a server off from its disks. The storage array has FC host ports on both controllers, also split across the two switches. The switches are zoned so each server sees only its own volumes.

Cabling: FC cables, LC to LC.

What to check

Hardware for this setup

Every model and part in the reference that fits this path, by role and brand. Open one to see what it connects to.

Servers (117)

Dell

HPE

Lenovo

Server adapters (6)

Dell

Switches (3)

Lenovo

Storage (42)

Dell

HPE

Lenovo

Array host port cards (1)

Lenovo

Optics (4)

Dell

Lenovo

Plan and size it

Other ways to connect

FAQ

Can I connect a server to an FC array without a switch?

Yes, many arrays support direct attach (point to point) for a few hosts: connect each HBA port straight to a controller port. You lose the ability to add hosts beyond the free array ports, and zoning is not needed.

Do I need two FC switches?

For production, yes. Two separate fabrics (A and B) with each server and each controller connected to both means one switch, cable or HBA port can fail without an outage. Multipath software in the operating system handles the failover.

Can a 32Gb FC HBA work with a 16Gb switch?

Yes. Fibre Channel negotiates down, so a 32Gb HBA runs at 16Gb on a 16Gb switch port, provided the optic in each end supports that speed.

Buying or selling SAN, NAS and network hardware?

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.

Buy SAN, NAS and network hardwareSell yours