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What are WWIDs and WWNs? An easy-to-understand explanation of the basic concepts of storage networks
Do you ever wonder how data is stored and accessed in large-scale storage networks? In the world of storage networks, there are buzzwords like WWIDs and WWNs that are frequently mentioned. But what exactly do these terms mean? In this blog post, we will demystify these concepts and provide a clear explanation of what WWIDs and WWNs are in storage networks.
What is a WWID?
WWID stands for World Wide Identifier. It is a unique identifier given to a device or an entity in a storage network. Think of it as a serial number that distinguishes one device or entity from another. A WWID is typically assigned by a storage controller and is used to identify and track devices within the storage network.
When a storage device is connected to a network, it is assigned a WWID that remains constant even if the device is moved or its connection is changed. This allows the device to be easily recognized and accessed by other devices in the storage network. WWID plays a crucial role in enabling communication and data transfer between various components of a storage network.
What is a WWN?
WWN stands for World Wide Name. It is a unique identifier assigned to a storage device or a host in a storage network. Unlike a WWID, which identifies individual devices, a WWN identifies the entire device or host itself. In other words, it serves as a unique address for the device or host within the storage network.
A WWN is typically assigned to a network interface card (NIC) or a host bus adapter (HBA) that connects a device or a host to the storage network. It allows the device or host to be recognized by other components in the storage network and facilitates data transfer and communication between them.
How are WWIDs and WWNs used in storage networks?
Now that we understand what WWIDs and WWNs are, let’s explore how they are used in storage networks. When a device, such as a server, connects to a storage network, it presents its WWN to the storage controller. The storage controller then assigns a WWID to the device, creating a unique relationship between the device’s WWN and its WWID.
This association between WWIDs and WWNs is essential for effective communication and management of storage devices in the network. It enables administrators to track, configure, and manage devices easily, ensuring seamless connectivity and efficient data storage and retrieval.
In conclusion, WWIDs and WWNs are integral components of storage networks. WWIDs uniquely identify individual devices within the network, while WWNs serve as unique addresses for devices or hosts. Understanding these concepts is crucial for anyone involved in storage networking, as they play a vital role in ensuring the reliable and efficient operation of storage networks.
Whether you’re a storage network administrator or someone interested in understanding the basics of storage networks, we hope this article has provided you with a clear and accessible explanation of what WWIDs and WWNs are in the context of storage networks.
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