HPE SN2600B SAN Extension Switch: 32Gb 12/4, 4-Port 16Gb Short Wave SFP+

The HPE SN2600B SAN Extension Switch is a purpose-built extension platform designed for midrange storage environments that demand high performance, reliability, and scalable connectivity across multisite data centers. Built to support block, file, and tape data protection solutions, this B-series switch acts as a bridge between storage fabrics, enabling seamless replication, disaster recovery, and rapid data access across geographically dispersed sites. Whether you’re consolidating storage at a central data center or extending your SAN fabric to regional facilities, the SN2600B delivers the bandwidth, flexibility, and manageability required for modern storage architectures.

• High-performance SAN extension Enables robust, low-latency connectivity between data centers, supporting mission-critical workloads and rapid data replication across sites.
• 32Gb Fibre Channel capability Provides the speed and bandwidth necessary to handle growth in midrange storage environments while maintaining compatibility with existing 32Gb fabrics.
• 4-port 16Gb Short Wave SFP+ interfaces Delivers reliable long-distance connections to SAN fabrics, enabling scalable multisite deployments without compromising latency or throughput.
• HPE B-series integration Seamlessly fits into the HPE B-series ecosystem, leveraging familiar management tools, security features, and proven reliability for enterprise-grade storage networks.
• Comprehensive protection for data across locations Supports block, file, and tape data protection strategies, empowering organizations to implement robust backup, recovery, and disaster-recovery workflows across sites.

Technical Details of HPE SN2600B SAN Extension Switch

• Product family: HPE SN2600B SAN Extension Switch (B-series)
• Primary function: SAN extension and interconnection for midrange storage environments
• Fabric speed: Up to 32Gb Fibre Channel per link
• Ports (SFP+): 4-port 16Gb Short Wave SFP+ for extended connectivity
• Deployment model: Rack-mountable extension switch designed for multisite data centers
• Compatibility: Designed to integrate with HPE B-series switches and existing SAN fabrics
• Intended workloads: Block storage, file storage, and data protection (backup/recovery) across SAN fabrics
• Redundancy and reliability: Built for enterprise-grade reliability with modular components and scalable architecture
• Management approach: Managed through standard HPE storage management tools and protocols, with integration into existing governance and security frameworks

How to install HPE SN2600B 32Gb 12/4 4-port 16Gb Short Wave SFP+ SAN Extension Switch

• Plan your SAN topology and ensure compatibility with your current HPE B-series fabric. Map out extension pathways between data centers and verify cable distances and SFP+ compatibility.
• Prepare the installation site in a standard 19-inch rack or cabinet, ensuring adequate clearance for cooling and maintenance access around the SN2600B unit.
• Power down the chassis or ensure hot-swappable operation if your data center supports it, then install the SN2600B into the rack and connect power supplies according to your facility’s electrical standards.
• Connect the 4 x 16Gb Short Wave SFP+ ports to the designated SAN fabric interfaces, matching zoning and LUN requirements with adjacent storage switches and directors.
• Power up the switch and use the established management interface to configure fabric parameters, zoning, and security policies. Validate link status, throughput, and path availability across all connected endpoints.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What is the primary purpose of the HPE SN2600B? The SN2600B is a SAN Extension Switch designed to bridge storage area networks between data centers, enabling multisite deployment, replication, and robust data protection across block, file, and tape environments.
• Q: How many ports does the SN2600B provide for SAN extension? It features 4-port 16Gb Short Wave SFP+ interfaces for high-speed, long-distance extension of the SAN fabric, paired with 32Gb Fibre Channel capability per link.
• Q: Is the SN2600B compatible with other HPE B-series switches? Yes. The SN2600B is built to integrate with the HPE B-series ecosystem, allowing existing fabrics to scale without major architectural changes and leveraging familiar management tools.
• Q: What workloads can benefit most from the SN2600B? Midrange storage environments running mission-critical block workloads, distributed file storage, and data protection tasks (backup and disaster recovery) across multiple sites will see the greatest benefits from extended SAN connectivity and improved recovery times.
• Q: How does the SN2600B improve multisite data protection? By enabling efficient, high-speed SAN extension between data centers, it supports replication workflows, synchronous or asynchronous replication strategies, and centralized management for cross-site protection plans.
• Q: What should I consider when installing? Plan for zoning, path management, and compatibility with your storage arrays; ensure proper cabling distances for Short Wave SFP+ links; and validate performance under expected workloads after deployment.