QLogic QLA4050C Network Card Computer Component

SANs with Ethernet and IP: iSCSI

IT managers now have a choice when considering SAN management options. The QLA4050, QLA4050C, and QLA4052C (collectively referred to as the QLA405x) iSCSI adapters provide connectivity to SANs over Ethernet and TCP/IP network infrastructures (switches, routers, and VPN appliances). Using a widely deployed and familiar networking technology, iSCSI can lower the total cost of ownership to better manage and support storage networking.

Networking and Storage Performance

By offloading the iSCSI and TCP/IP protocol to the adapter, the QLA405x eliminates the processing, interrupts, and bus accesses required to support protocols in host software. The QLA405x virtually eliminates the host CPU system processing required for iSCSI and TCP/IP, delivering the equivalent initialization and host processing performance of direct attach storage (DAS) and Fibre Channel SANs.

Simplified Setup

Point-and-click installation and configuration wizards simplify the iSCSI adapter setup process. Storage administrators can quickly deploy iSCSI adapters across a SAN using standard iSCSI adapter management tools and device utilities. The QLA405x is also fully compatible with industry standard application programming interfaces (APIs), thereby allowing administrators to manage QLogic iSCSI adapters using third-party software applications.

Familiar Storage Functionality

By offloading the iSCSI protocol, the QLA405x uses the existing storage interface of the operating system. Using a familiar storage interface allows the QLA405x to support proven LUN and target level fail-over functionality, storage SAN boot, and existing SAN management and application software.

Comprehensive Operating System (OS) Support

QLogic offers the broadest range of support for all major operating systems to ensure OS and hardware server compatibility. Drivers are fully tested with industry-recognized certifications from all the major operating systems including Windows, Linux, and Solaris. A single driver strategy per OS allows storage administrators to easily deploy, configure, and manage iSCSI adapters in heterogeneous SAN configurations.

Guaranteed Interoperability

Storage partner certifications, combined with agency and regulatory testing, ensures that all products meet world compliance hardware and software specifications. All iSCSI adapters are tested extensively with third-party hardware, along with multiple software applications, to ensure best-in-class SAN interoperability and compatibility. You can be confident purchasing QLogic iSCSI adapters to meet your storage networking needs.