What is the fiber channel?
FIBRE Channel (FC) is a high -speed network technology. Using the FC network interface, data can be sent with lasers via an optical cable that is many kilometers in length. FC and topology protocols can also be used on an Ethernet network of shorter distances over copper cables. FC is often used in storage networks to connect storage devices and servers that distribute their data. This is also commonly used in internet and business intranet infrastructure.
Development began on Fibre Channel technology in 1988 and became standard in 1994. Designers originally focused on long -term communication using a simple connection. The alternative was a high -performance parallel interface (HIPPI), a standard based on a supercomputer with a relatively short and voluminous connection. Over time, the FC transmission speed has increased and has become a common interface for storage network (SAN). The serial storage architecture was a competitor of a 90th year, but FC soon reachedl much higher bandwidth. The highest layer is the place where other protocols are ready for transmission via the network layer. FC supports many high -level protocols including Internet protocol (IP), a small computer system (SCSI) and video protocols. Network, data connection and physical layers-three model layers-they are where the protocols specific to FC actually send data. Some higher -speed FC standards are not compatible with slower speeds due to differences in data connection layer.
When the device group is connected by FC, the connection is referred to as the fiber fabric. Three different topologies can be used to create a fiber fabric. The switched substance is similar to Ethernet, with individual devices connected to the central network switch. This is the most effective arrangement when multiple devices transmit data at the same time. Also prevents the device failure oron the switching port to stop the rest of the fabric.
The second topology, similar in some respects, is known as the Referee loop. It connects all devices in the loop and only two can speak together at the same time. Any device failure disrupts the ring as well as removal or adding a functional device. The third topology consists simply of two devices connected directly. The advantage of these two topologies over the switched substance is that each fiber frame is guaranteed to be delivered.
Large Sans need a very fast and reliable connection between network storage devices and servers that distribute their data. Since it is usually highly efficient for transmitting large data blocks, FIBRE Channel technology is often used in Sans. Distribuceservers generally use slower, less reliable and cheaper connections to address other servers and end users. Even without San, Fiber Channel often combines top storage devices with individual servers. FC can be the oneTo use a remote storage backup system to an individual computer many kilometers away.