Using Soft WWNs for Fibre Channels

The Soft WWN feature enables Fibre Channel ports to be identified using a substitute World Wide Name (WWN). This allows for the replacement of Fibre Channel HBAs without having to remap to the WWN of the new HBA.  In the event of an HBA failure or replacement, the Soft WWN of the port and node will be used for the new HBA. This feature makes channel replacement quick and simple and we highly recommend its use.

To enable the Soft WWN feature:

  1. From the SANcentral Tools menu, choose SANsymphony Console.

  2. In the left pane, open Fibre Channel Manager.

  3. In the left pane, select a channel, and then choose Properties from the context menu.

  4. On the Basic tab, select the Use Soft World Wide Names check box.

  5. Enter a WWN for the port and node or use the provided default  WWN based on the storage server.

  6. Click OK on the dialog box.

  7. A message appears confirming re-initialization of the channel. Click Yes.

Reverting back from Soft WWNs to Original WWNs

Follow the same procedure above, except clear the Use Soft World Wide Names check box.

Related Topic:

Replacing Channels That Use Soft WWNs

Using Soft WWNs for Fibre Channels