White Papers

39 BP1043 | Configuring Windows Server 2008 R2 for iSCSI SAN Boot with EqualLogic Storage
11 Conclusions
Configuring a Windows 2008 R2 server to boot from an EqualLogic iSCSI SAN has several advantages for
management of the server and network. It also provides high reliability for the IT environment. Using Boot
from SAN is valuable in an IT environment for the following advantages:
• Quick and easy centralized backup
• Faster recovery in event of server failure
• Servers can be replaced, re-purposed, and added more quick and easily
• Lower operating cost by eliminating need for local hard disks on each server
• Simpler management for administrators
Using an external storage device to host server boot images helps with quick and easy centralized backups
for the boot images. Data including boot information can be easily replicated which can make recovery in
the event of server hardware failure faster. The boot images are securely stored on a storage platform
independent of the servers, so it is easy to replace servers. Adding a new server with a replicated boot
image is quick and easy because you only need to point the new server to a newly replicated or existing
boot image.
Boot from iSCSI SAN gives higher reliability in terms of hardware failure, data loss, rapid disaster recovery,
and easier centralized backup. Using iSCSI storage instead of local hard drives helps in efficient use of
storage space because over-provisioning in terms of the internal storage of the server can be eliminated,
which results in lower operating cost. SAN storage systems are generally more robust and reliable
compared to hard-drives on individual servers.
Boot from iSCSI SAN enables simplified management for the administrator. Operating system patching
and upgrades can be carried out with very little downtime. Upgraded operating system images can be
prepared and cloned on the storage device and individual servers can be pointed to new boot images and
rebooted with very little downtime. Boot images can be cloned and used to test upgrades, service packs,
and other patches without disturbing a production environment.
Boot from iSCSI SAN provides great benefits and offers opportunities to make administrative tasks simpler.
By following the best practices outlined in this whitepaper, server and storage administrators can improve
the operational efficiency and productivity in their IT environment.
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