Manage redistribution login settings for uplink failover on a Fibre Channel network

A Fibre Channel network can have multiple uplinks, all from the same physical interconnect. Up to 16 servers can connect to the Fibre Channel network using these uplinks. The interconnect uses a login, or connection, distribution algorithm to choose an uplink as servers connect and come online. If one or more of the uplinks fail, the interconnect automatically fails over these logins (connections) to the remaining uplinks.

When the failed uplinks are restored, there are two choices (set when you add or edit a Fibre Channel network from the Networks screen):
  • Login redistribution is Auto, where the interconnect automatically redistributes the logins and starts using all the uplinks for optimal load balancing.

  • Login redistribution is Manual, where you redistribute the logins manually.

The link stability time (typically 30 seconds) is applicable when login redistribution is set to Auto and specifies how long the interconnect should wait (after an uplink recovers) before triggering the redistribution, ensuring that the uplink is stable.

Prerequisites

Network type must be set to Fibre Channel (set on the Networks screen)

Procedure
  1. Initially, select the login redistribution method when you add or edit a Fibre Channel network from the Networks screen:
    1. From the main menu, select NETWORKING > Networks > Create network.
    2. Select Fibre Channel as the type of network.
    3. For login redistribution, select Auto or Manual. For Virtual Connect Fibre Channel, select Manual.
    4. Click Create to create the network.
  2. From the main menu, select NETWORKING > Logical Interconnects.
  3. Select Actions > Redistribute logins.
  4. Select the uplink sets to assign for login redistribution.
  5. Click OK.
  6. To verify that the activity is successful, check the activity for a green status in the Notifications area.

    If not, follow the proposed resolution listed under Details in the Notifications area.

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