IP storage combines traditional IP networking with shared storage technologies. The IP SAN plumbing is therefore a mix of conventional Gigabit Ethernet switches and IP routers, as well as storage-specific adapters, gateways, targets, bridges, and management servers. This chapter provides an overview of both established IP network products and the new IP storage products that are enabling the convergence of shared storage and mainstream IP networking. Chapter 12, Application Studies, discusses how these products can be applied for practical storage applications. |