What are WWNs and WWIDs? An easy-to-understand explanation of the basic concepts of data storage
In the world of data storage, there are various technical terms and acronyms that can be confusing to newcomers. Two such terms are WWNs and WWIDs. Understanding these concepts is essential for anyone working with storage networking technologies. So, let’s break them down in a simple and easy-to-understand way.
What is a WWN?
WWN stands for World Wide Name. It is a unique identifier assigned to a storage device or host bus adapter (HBA) in a Fibre Channel (FC) storage area network (SAN). Think of it as a serial number that distinguishes one device from another in a network.
The WWN is a globally unique 64-bit or 128-bit address, expressed as a hexadecimal number. It consists of two parts: the Organizational Unique Identifier (OUI), which identifies the manufacturer, and the Node Name, which is assigned by the manufacturer.
What is a WWID?
WWID stands for World Wide Identifier. It is another unique identifier used in storage networking, and specifically in the iSCSI (Internet Small Computer System Interface) protocol. An iSCSI WWID provides a way to uniquely identify a storage resource, such as a disk or a logical unit, across a network.
Similar to WWNs, WWIDs are globally unique and expressed as hexadecimal numbers. They are used to establish and maintain connections between initiators (devices initiating the storage request) and targets (devices providing the storage resources) in an iSCSI SAN.
How are WWNs and WWIDs used?
WWNs and WWIDs play a crucial role in storage networking. They are used to identify and address storage devices, ensuring that data is delivered to the correct destination. By using unique identifiers, the network can differentiate between multiple devices, preventing data loss and enabling efficient data management.
When setting up a storage network, administrators configure the WWNs and WWIDs of their devices, enabling communication between servers, switches, and storage arrays. These identifiers are crucial in establishing and maintaining connectivity, as well as in managing access and security.
It’s worth noting that while WWNs are specific to Fibre Channel SANs and WWIDs to iSCSI SANs, both protocols are commonly used in enterprise storage environments. Understanding the differences and nuances between them is essential for building and maintaining reliable and efficient storage networks.
In conclusion, WWNs and WWIDs are unique identifiers used in storage networking to differentiate between devices and ensure data is delivered to the correct destination. By understanding these basic concepts, you can navigate the world of data storage more confidently. So, next time you come across these terms, you’ll know exactly what they mean and why they matter.
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