Cisco MDS 9396T 32-Gbps 96-Port Fibre Channel Switch

The Cisco MDS 9396T 32-Gbps 96-Port Fibre Channel Switch is a cutting-edge solution designed to enhance connectivity in storage area networks (SANs). Ideal for medium to large departmental SANs and dense hyperscale server environments, this switch delivers exceptional throughput and reliability, ensuring that your data handling capabilities are second to none. With advanced analytics and telemetry capabilities, the Cisco MDS 9396T stands out as a premier choice for organizations aiming to optimize their data operations.

Key Features of Cisco MDS 9396T

• High-Speed Connectivity: The Cisco MDS 9396T offers 32 Gbps Fibre Channel connectivity, providing rapid data transfer rates essential for businesses that require swift and reliable data access.
• NVMe-Ready Design: Designed to support Fibre Channel Non-Volatile Memory Express (FC-NVMe) workloads, this switch ensures seamless future-proofing, allowing for upgrades without necessitating hardware changes within your SAN.
• High Density and Scalability: Featuring 96 ports within a compact 2-rack unit design, the Cisco MDS 9396T is perfect for environments that demand high-density connectivity, easily scaling to accommodate growing departmental SAN needs.
• Advanced Autozone Configuration: The built-in Autozone feature automates the zoning of host and storage ports, eliminating manual configurations and simplifying deployment, which enables faster setup of new environments.
• Flexible Deployment Options: This switch can be deployed in multiple configurations — as an end-of-row, middle-of-row, or top-of-rack switch, with forward or reverse airflow directions, ensuring seamless integration into existing SAN infrastructures.

Technical Details of Product

• Model: Cisco MDS 9396T
• Ports: 96 Ports
• Speed: 32 Gbps
• Form Factor: 2-Rack Unit
• NVMe Support: Yes
• Autozone Feature: Yes
• Deployment Options: End-of-row, middle-of-row, top-of-rack

How to Install

Installing the Cisco MDS 9396T Fibre Channel Switch is a straightforward process. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Prepare the installation site by ensuring adequate space and a stable power source.
2. Mount the switch into a standard 19-inch rack using appropriate mounting hardware.
3. Connect the power cables to the switch and to the power outlet, ensuring they are secure.
4. Connect the Fibre Channel cables to the desired ports, following the recommended guidelines for optimal performance.
5. Power on the switch and configure the initial settings using a console cable connected to a laptop or PC.
6. Access the switch management interface and configure the Autozone settings as required.
7. Test the connectivity to ensure all connections are functioning properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What types of environments is the Cisco MDS 9396T suitable for? The Cisco MDS 9396T is ideally suited for medium to large departmental SANs and dense hyperscale server environments requiring high-speed connectivity and reliability.
• Is the Cisco MDS 9396T compatible with existing SAN infrastructure? Yes, the Cisco MDS 9396T can seamlessly integrate with existing MDS directors and existing top-of-rack switches in N-Port Virtualization (NPV) mode.
• Can I upgrade to NVMe without replacing the switch? Absolutely! The Cisco MDS 9396T is NVMe-ready, allowing you to transition to FC-NVMe workloads without any hardware upgrades.
• How does the Autozone feature benefit my setup? The Autozone feature automates the zoning of host and storage ports, simplifying your configuration process and reducing setup times.
• What is the maximum number of hosts I can connect? The switch supports expansion by connecting as an N-Port ID Virtualization (NPIV) core switch, allowing for a significant increase in the number of manageable hosts.