Modern connectivity for storage and compute HPE Storage Networking
Broad portfolio of Fibre Channel and Ethernet storage networking solutions that are lab tested and HPE supported.
SAN-validated Ethernet and Fibre Channel switches
HPE Storage Networking offers a portfolio of high-performance, multiprotocol switches that have been rigorously tested and qualified for diverse SAN configurations, including Fibre Channel, iSCSI, FCoE, and NVMe over Fabrics. We validate compatibility and interoperability across a variety of servers, storage platforms, adapters, cards, optics, cables, storage management software, and host operating systems, then publish the information on the HPE Single Point of Connectivity Knowledge (SPOCK) website.
Our customers
Explore the HPE Storage Networking portfolio
We have fast, reliable, and scalable storage connectivity solutions that help reduce downtime, accelerate data access, and safeguard critical business data. Whether deploying Fibre Channel or Ethernet-based solutions, HPE provides the versatility and optionality to meet diverse IT demands. Choose from B-series or C-series for Fibre Channel and H-series or M-series for Ethernet.
- HPE B-series
- HPE C-series
- HPE H-series
- HPE M-series
Validated across various HPE storage platforms
Recommended resources
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about storage networking.
What is storage networking?
Storage networking is the practice of connecting storage devices (e.g. SAN or NAS) to servers using a dedicated network to improve data access and management.
What is Fibre Channel?
Fibre Channel is a high-speed network technology primarily used to connect servers to shared storage in a SAN environment.
What is iSCSI?
iSCSI (Internet Small Computer Systems Interface) is a protocol that transports SCSI commands over IP networks, enabling block-level access to storage over Ethernet.
What is NVMe over Fabrics (NVMe-oF)?
NVMe-oF is a protocol that extends NVMe across a network fabric like Ethernet (RoCE/TCP) or Fibre Channel, providing high-speed access to flash storage.
How is Fibre Channel different from Ethernet-based storage?
Fibre Channel uses a dedicated network with lower latency and higher reliability for storage traffic. Ethernet-based storage could be deployed as a dedicated network for storage but could also share the network with other traffic. Fibre Channel is lossless by default, while Ethernet requires activation and configuration to achieve lossless functionality.
How does Ethernet achieve lossless functionality?
Data Center Bridging (DCB) is a suite of standards that enhance Ethernet to make it more suitable for storage traffic. It includes features like priority-based flow control (PFC) and enhanced transmission selection (ETS). To enable lossless functionality on Ethernet, activate DCB.
What speeds does Fibre Channel support?
Fibre Channel supports speeds like 8 Gbps, 16 Gbps, 32 Gbps, and 64 Gbps. The highest Fibre Channel speed that is supported by a switch can also support two speeds lower (e.g. 64 Gbps can also support 32 Gbps and 16 Gbps).
What Ethernet speeds are common for storage networking?
Common Ethernet speeds for storage are 10GbE, 25GbE, 40GbE, 50GbE, and 100GbE with 200GbE and 400GbE emerging.
Can I mix Fibre Channel and Ethernet in one storage network?
Yes, but they usually operate in separate fabrics. Some converged adapters and switches support both, but management and design must be carefully planned.
What are the advantages of Ethernet-based storage?
Ethernet storage is generally less expensive, easier to scale, and integrates with existing networks, though it may have slightly higher latency compared to Fibre Channel.