HP 3PAR VMware ESX Implementation Guide

HP 3PAR Priority Optimization
The HP 3PAR Priority Optimization feature introduced as of HP 3PAR OS version 3.1.2.MU2 is a
more efficient and dynamic solution for managing server workloads and can be utilized as an
alternative to setting host I/O throttles. Using this feature, a storage administrator is able to share
storage resources more effectively by enforcing quality of service limits on the array. No special
settings are needed on the host side to obtain the benefit of Priority Optimization, although certain
per target or per adapter throttle settings may need to be adjusted in rare cases. For complete
details of how to use Priority Optimization (Quality of Service) on HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage
arrays, please read the HP 3PAR Priority Optimization technical white paper available on the
following website:
HP 3PAR Priority Optimization
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).
Port shutdown or reset events do not trigger this feature.
Each FC, FCoE, or iSCSI 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 FC, FCoE, or iSCSI 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 following:
• 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
• 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
iSCSI
HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports Setup and Connectivity Guidelines for iSCSI
Starting with HP 3PAR OS 3.1.3, the HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports feature is supported for iSCSI.
Starting with HP 3PAR OS 3.1.3 software and later, the HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports feature is
enabled by default for HP 3PAR StoreServ Storage iSCSI ports during node-down events.
HP 3PAR OS Persistent Ports Setup and Connectivity Guidelines for iSCSI
Specific cabling setup and connectivity guidelines need to be followed for HP 3PAR OS Persistent
Ports to function properly.
A key element for iSCSI connectivity is that partner ports must share the same IP network.
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