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How does FC-AL work in fibre channel?

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Fibre channel is a high-speed network technology that connects servers and storage devices in data centers. It supports various topologies and protocols to suit different needs and preferences. One of the most common and simple topologies is FC-AL, which stands for fibre channel arbitrated loop. In this article, you will learn how FC-AL works, what are its advantages and disadvantages, and how it compares to other fibre channel topologies.

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1 FC-AL Basics

FC-AL is a topology that connects up to 127 devices in a single loop using fibre optic cables. Each device has a unique address and can communicate with any other device on the loop. However, only one device can transmit data at a time, and it must first obtain permission from a central arbitrator. The arbitrator is either a dedicated device or one of the devices on the loop that acts as a master. The arbitrator grants access to the loop based on a priority scheme and ensures that no collisions occur.

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Cristiano de Deus Lima ??

Analista Suporte e Infraestrutura | Cloud Azure | Microsoft 365 | Fortinet | Windows Server | MCP | 12x Certified Microsoft
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Fibre Channel Arbitrated Loop (FC-AL) é uma topologia de rede usada no protocolo de comunica??o Fibre Channel. Isso permite que os dispositivos sejam conectados em um loop físico para formar uma rede em anel. Cada dispositivo no loop se comunica diretamente com o dispositivo anterior e o próximo na cadeia, formando uma cadeia de comunica??o.

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2 FC-AL Advantages

FC-AL has some advantages over other fibre channel topologies, such as point-to-point and switched fabric. First, it is relatively easy and cheap to set up and maintain, as it requires fewer components and cables. Second, it is compatible with older devices and systems that use SCSI (small computer system interface) protocols, as it can emulate a SCSI bus. Third, it can provide high bandwidth and low latency for sequential data transfers, such as backup and restore operations.

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Cristiano de Deus Lima ??

Analista Suporte e Infraestrutura | Cloud Azure | Microsoft 365 | Fortinet | Windows Server | MCP | 12x Certified Microsoft
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FC-AL é uma op??o mais econ?mica em compara??o com outras topologias Fibre Channel, como switches Fibre Channel. Isso torna o FC-AL uma escolha viável para ambientes de menor escala ou or?amentos limitados.

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3 FC-AL Disadvantages

FC-AL also has some disadvantages that limit its performance and scalability. First, it is susceptible to failures and disruptions, as a single break or malfunction in the loop can affect the entire network. Second, it has low efficiency and throughput, as only one device can access the loop at a time, and the arbitration process adds overhead. Third, it has poor scalability and flexibility, as it can only support up to 127 devices per loop, and adding or removing devices requires reconfiguration of the loop.

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Cristiano de Deus Lima ??

Analista Suporte e Infraestrutura | Cloud Azure | Microsoft 365 | Fortinet | Windows Server | MCP | 12x Certified Microsoft
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Menor flexibilidade de configura??o: O FC-AL oferece menos flexibilidade em compara??o com topologias baseadas em switches Fibre Channel.

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4 FC-AL Variations

FC-AL can be modified or combined with other topologies to overcome some of its drawbacks. For example, dual-loop FC-AL uses two parallel loops to provide redundancy and fault tolerance, as well as doubling the bandwidth. Alternatively, FC-AL can be connected to a switch to form a hybrid topology, where the switch acts as a bridge between multiple loops or between loops and point-to-point or fabric devices. This way, FC-AL can benefit from the switch's features, such as routing, zoning, and load balancing.

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5 FC-AL Comparison

FC-AL is one of the oldest and simplest fibre channel topologies, but it is still widely used in some applications and scenarios. It is best suited for small and stable networks that require low-cost and high-speed sequential data transfers. However, it is not ideal for large and dynamic networks that require high availability, high efficiency, and high scalability. For those networks, other topologies, such as point-to-point and switched fabric, offer better performance and functionality.

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6 FC-AL Summary

FC-AL is a fibre channel topology that connects devices in a single loop using fibre optic cables. It has some advantages, such as low cost, SCSI compatibility, and high bandwidth for sequential data transfers. It also has some disadvantages, such as failure susceptibility, low efficiency, and poor scalability. It can be modified or combined with other topologies to improve its reliability and versatility. It is suitable for small and stable networks, but not for large and dynamic networks.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How does FC-AL work in fibre channel?

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1 FC-AL Basics

2 FC-AL Advantages

3 FC-AL Disadvantages

4 FC-AL Variations

5 FC-AL Comparison

6 FC-AL Summary

7 Here’s what else to consider

Computer Networking

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How does FC-AL work in fibre channel?

1

2

3

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6

7

1 FC-AL Basics

2 FC-AL Advantages

3 FC-AL Disadvantages

4 FC-AL Variations

5 FC-AL Comparison

6 FC-AL Summary

7 Here’s what else to consider

Computer Networking

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