Host Attachment and Virtualization Software

IBM i VIOS and NPIV FlashSystem Attachment Software

The host-side software layer, PowerVM VIOS and N_Port ID Virtualization (NPIV), that lets an IBM i partition reach external IBM FlashSystem storage over a shared Fibre Channel SAN.

Storage Management Vendor: IBM

Program Overview

IBM Storage Virtualize (see the related entry) is the software that runs the FlashSystem array itself. This is a different layer: the software that lets an IBM i partition actually reach that array in the first place. Depending on the Power server and configuration, an IBM i partition attaches to FlashSystem storage either natively over direct Fibre Channel, or through a Virtual I/O Server (VIOS) partition using NPIV to present a virtual Fibre Channel port to the client partition.

Getting this layer wrong is a common source of failed FlashSystem attachment projects that otherwise have the array sizing and Storage Virtualize licensing correct. NPIV specifically requires IBM i, VIOS, the physical Fibre Channel adapter, and the SAN switch fabric to all support NPIV, not just one link in that chain.

Best Fit

Best fit for AS400/IBM i teams planning or troubleshooting external FlashSystem SAN attachment who need to confirm whether native direct attach or VIOS/NPIV is the right path for their Power server and partition design.

What this program helps with

  • Native direct Fibre Channel or SAN attach from an IBM i partition to a FlashSystem array on supported configurations
  • VIOS-virtualized attachment using NPIV, letting multiple client partitions share physical Fibre Channel adapters
  • Multipath handling across redundant SAN fabric paths to the FlashSystem array
  • A shared attachment layer that also serves AIX and Linux partitions on the same Power server

What to vet before shortlist

  • Confirm whether the target Power server and IBM i release support native SAN attach, or whether VIOS with NPIV is required
  • NPIV requires NPIV-capable physical Fibre Channel adapters and SAN switches in addition to IBM i and VIOS software support; confirm every link in that chain, not just the software levels
  • Verify current minimum IBM i, VIOS, and Storage Virtualize firmware levels against IBM's published external storage support matrix before finalizing a project plan, since minimums have moved forward across IBM i releases

Get Pricing and More Information

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