What is iSCSI SAN?

iSCSI is Internet SCSI (Small Computer System Interface), an Internet Protocol (IP) based storage networking standard for linking data storage facilities developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). By carrying SCSI commands over IP networks, iSCSI is used to facilitate data transfers over intranets and to manage storage over long distances. Thus, iSCSI is SCSI block-storage access that is mapped to run across an IP network.

It takes three components to establish an iSCSI SAN: a network, a target and an initiator. The network component is relatively easy, virtually any IP network, such as Ethernet, will work. The "target" is basically a storage destination. Syritex™ AquilaLogix® servers series are iSCSI targets with dedicated storage arrays. Each system that will access iSCSI storage will also need a software "initiator". The use of IP networks also gives iSCSI a global reach leading from a LAN to a WAN and onto the internet - allowing storage to be located almost anywhere.

The iSCSI SAN appeal is simplicity and low cost. iSCSI SAN appliance lowers the cost of building storage SANs by using Ethernet NICs and switches instead of more expensive Fiber Channel (FC) Host Bus Adapters (HBA), switches and directors.

The iSCSI SAN doesn't require more than the existing expertise. Networking Administrators can easily translate their IP networking knowledge to support a Syritex™ AquilaLogix® servers series. It is not necessary to hire more IT personnel to implement and manage the SAN as with FC SANs which are typically small island of technology located in a data center.