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21 Dell PS Series DCB Configuration Best Practices | BP1058
 For switches that support the DCB propagation mechanism: Switch inter-connectivity in the Layer 2
network must be designed so that there is no single point of failure that would cause a disjoint
network. When designed properly, the failure of a single switch device, link, or port interface should
not cause a disjoint network. The administrator must ensure that network redundancy design best
practices are followed to avoid disjoint networks.
Important: With all network configuration changes, there is a possibility of service interruptions. Network
changes required to properly configure DCB will result in a temporary loss of connectivity. Therefore, Dell
strongly recommends that all network environment changes are performed during a planned maintenance
window. Further, when re-configuring an existing PS Series SAN to function in DCB mode, it is
recommended to first configure DCB VLAN ID for iSCSI on the arrays and then configure DCB along with
VLAN ID on the switch ports. This will ensure that inter-array connectivity is not lost during the process.
3.2 Configuration for switches with DCB support
The following switches feature DCB with the requirements necessary to fully support PS Series storage
systems. These switches can be configured for DCB mode or as a dedicated SAN switch with standard link-
level (802.3x) flow control.
3.2.1 Dell Networking S4810
Refer to the Dell Networking S4810 Switch Configuration Guide for instructions related to DCB or non-DCB
configuration at
http://en.community.dell.com/dell-groups/dtcmedia/m/mediagallery/20220824
3.2.2 Dell Networking S4820T
Refer to the Dell Networking S4820TSwitch Configuration Guide for instructions related to DCB or non-DCB
configuration at
http://en.community.dell.com/dell-groups/dtcmedia/m/mediagallery/20293376
3.2.3 Dell Networking MXL
Refer to the Dell Networking MXL 10/40 GbE Blade Switch Configuration Guide for instructions related to
DCB or non-DCB configuration at
http://en.community.dell.com/dell-groups/dtcmedia/m/mediagallery/20279157
3.2.4 PowerConnect 81XX Series
Refer to the Dell PowerConnect 8100Series Switch Configuration Guide for instructions related to DCB or
non-DCB configuration at
http://en.community.dell.com/dell-groups/dtcmedia/m/mediagallery/20308559