HP 3PAR Windows 2012 and Windows Server 2008 Implementation Guide

Creating the Host Definition
The same steps for FC and FCoE hosts are followed when creating a Host Definition. For more
information, see “Creating the Host Definition” (page 12).
HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports
The HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports (or virtual ports) feature minimizes I/O disruption during an
HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage online upgrade or node-down event (online upgrade, node reboot,
or cable pull test). Port shutdown or reset events do not trigger this feature.
Each FCoE target storage array port has a partner array port automatically assigned by the system.
Partner ports are assigned across array node pairs.
HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports allows an HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage FCoE port to assume the identity
(port IP address) of a failed port while retaining its own identity. Where a given physical port
assumes the identity of its partner port, the assumed port is designated as a persistent port. Array
port failover and failback with HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports is transparent to most host-based
multipathing software, which can keep all of its I/O paths active.
NOTE: Use of HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports technology does not negate the need for properly
installed, configured, and maintained host multi-pathing software.
For a more complete description of the HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports feature, its operation, and a
complete list of required setup and connectivity guidelines, see:
• the HP Technical white paper HP 3PAR StoreServ Persistent Ports (HP document
#F4AA4-4545ENW)
This document is available on the following HP SC website:
HP Support Center
• the HP 3PAR Command Line Interface Administrator’s Manual, “Using Persistent Ports for
Nondisruptive Online Software Upgrades”
This document is available on the following HP SC website:
HP Support Center
Fibre Channel over Ethernet
NOTE: For information regarding the Persistent Ports feature for an FCoE initiator to FC target
configuration (FCoE to FC switched), see .
HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports Setup and Connectivity Guidelines for FCoE
Starting with HP 3PAR OS 3.1.3, the HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports feature is supported for FCoE
target ports (FCoE end-to-end configurations).
Starting with HP 3PAR OS 3.1.3 software and above, the HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports feature is
enabled by default for HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage FCoE ports during node-down events.
HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports Setup and Connectivity Guidelines for FCoE
Specific cabling setup and connectivity guidelines need to be followed for HP 3PAR OS Persistent
Ports to function properly. Key elements for the HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports feature setup and
connectivity are:
• HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage FCoE partner ports must be connected to the same FCoE network.
• The FCoE network being used must support NPIV, and NPIV must be enabled.
26 Configuring the HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage for FCoE