Configuring VSANs and zoning
Storage connectivity not only requires the configuration of connectivity protocols such as FC, FCoE, and iSCSI, but in the case of FC and FCoE SAN connectivity, it is also required to configure zoning to allow access to servers/hypervisors to the SAN LUNs. When using Cisco switches for SAN connectivity, it is also recommended to configure VSANs along with proper zoning. We will now look into zoning and VSANs.
Learning about zoning
Zoning is a conventional SAN security mechanism, which is used to restrict storage access between anticipated targets (typically SANs) and initiators (typically servers). There are two main methods to configure zoning: soft zoning and hard zoning. Hard zoning is more secure compared to soft zoning and is the preferred zoning method. SAN fabric switches from various vendors might support different zoning configurations, so it is always recommended to consult your SAN admin for proper zoning configuration.
In the previous UCS versions including...