Learning about the FC switching mode
Similar to LAN connectivity, UCS Fabric Interconnects support two types of switching modes: Fiber Channel End-host mode (EHM) and Fiber Channel Switching mode. The default switching mode is end-host mode where UCS appears as a number of hosts attached to the upstream switch. This is also known as NPV N Port Virtualization and requires an NPIV-capable Fabric Switch for providing the Fiber login services.
The other option available is the native Fiber Channel Switching mode where UCS Fabric Interconnect appears as a native Fiber Channel Fabric Switch. Switching between Fiber Channel modes is a disruptive process and hence should be arranged in a scheduled maintenance window.
In order to configure or verify end-host mode for the Fabric Interconnects, perform the following steps:
Log in to UCS Manager.
Click on the Equipment tab in the Navigation pane.
In the Equipment tab, click on a Fabric Interconnect.
The Status area in the Work pane shows the current FC Mode...