UCS Fabric Interconnect FC Storage Port Configuration
Short answer
D Configure Fibre Channel switching mode and set ports 1/1 and 1/2 as Fibre Channel storage ports to enable direct connection to the storage array.
Question
Key Takeaways
Direct connection to storage requires Fibre Channel switching mode with ports configured as storage ports, while end-host mode is used for uplinks to external fabrics.
This page explains the correct configuration for connecting a Cisco UCS Fabric Interconnect directly to a storage array via Fibre Channel, specifically addressing port modes and operational modes.
Common mistake: Many candidates select 'Fibre Channel end-host mode' because it is the default for most UCS connections, but this is incorrect when connecting directly to a SAN array.
Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
To connect a Cisco UCS Fabric Interconnect directly to a storage array (SAN) using Fibre Channel, the fabric interconnect must operate in Fibre Channel switching mode. In this mode, the FI acts like a standard Fibre Channel switch, allowing direct attachment of storage arrays. The ports connecting to the storage (ports 1/1 and 1/2) must be configured as Fibre Channel storage ports to handle the incoming storage traffic correctly. This setup enables the UCS blades to access the storage directly without an intermediate upstream fabric switch.Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Options A and B suggest 'Fibre Channel end-host mode'. End-host mode is designed for connecting the UCS domain to upstream Fibre Channel fabrics (like core SAN switches), not for direct attachment to storage arrays. In end-host mode, the FI does not participate in the fabric's zoning or naming in the same way a switch does, making direct storage attachment problematic or unsupported depending on the specific array requirements. Option C suggests 'Fibre Channel uplink port', which is incorrect because uplink ports are used to connect to upstream fabrics in end-host or switching mode, not to attach local storage.Community Comment Notes
The community is divided, with a majority voting for A, likely due to familiarity with end-host mode as the standard UCS deployment. However, comments from users like CoAsT_x correctly point out that direct connection to storage necessitates switching mode and storage ports. User missionflamingo notes the distinction between connecting to a SAN vs an array, but the key technical requirement remains the mode configuration for direct attachment.Exam Strategy
Always distinguish between connecting to an upstream fabric (End-Host mode) and connecting directly to storage (Switching mode). Remember that 'storage port' is the interface type for direct storage links, while 'uplink' is for fabric connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I use End-Host mode for direct storage connection?
What is the difference between FC storage port and uplink port?
Community Votes
67% of anonymous learners picked answer A. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.
Discussion 3 contributions
Compiled from public community threads and reader submissions, lightly edited for clarity. Handles and vote tallies are shown as recorded, and comments reflect the views of individual contributors.
From public community threads 3
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missionflamingo 👍 2 Answered AThe question states directly connected to the SAN, not directly connected to the array.
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CoAsT_x 👍 1 Answered DDirectly connected storage for FC must use FC switching mode and will be a storage port.
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lurker8000 👍 1I think it's B.
Reader comments & corrections
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