Examples of MetroCluster network topologies

Shared network configuration with direct links​

In this topology, two distinct sites are connected by direct links. These links can be between Wavelength Division Multiplexing equipment (xWDM) or switches. The capacity of the ISLs is not dedicated to the MetroCluster traffic but is shared with other traffic.

The ISL capacity must meet the minimum requirements. Depending on whether you use xWDM devices or switches a different combination of network configurations might apply.

Shared infrastructure with intermediate networks​

In this topology, the MetroCluster IP core switch traffic and the host traffic travel through a network that is not provided by Lenovo. The network infrastructure and the links (including leased direct links) are outside of the MetroCluster configuration. The network can consist of a series of xWDM and switches but unlike the shared configuration with direct ISLs, the links are not direct between the sites. Depending on the infrastructure between the sites, any combination of network configurations is possible. The intermediate infrastructure is represented as a cloud (multiple devices can exist between the sites), but it is still under the control of the customer. Capacity through this intermediate infrastructure is not dedicated to the MetroCluster traffic but is shared with other traffic.

The VLAN and network xWDM or switch configuration must meet the minimum requirements.

Two MetroCluster configurations sharing an intermediate network​

In this topology, two separate MetroCluster configurations are sharing the same intermediate network. In the example, MetroCluster one switch_A_1 and MetroCluster two switch_A_1 both connect to the same intermediate switch.

The example is simplified for illustration purposes only:

Two MetroCluster configurations with one connecting directly to the intermediate network​

This topology is supported beginning with ONTAP 9.7. Two separate MetroCluster configurations share the same intermediate network and one MetroCluster configuration's nodes is directly connected to the intermediate switch.

MetroCluster One is a MetroCluster configuration using Lenovo validated switches, ONTAP 9.6 and a shared topology. MetroCluster Two is a MetroCluster configuration using Lenovo compliant switches and ONTAP 9.7.

Using supported MetroCluster switches

The example is simplified for illustration purposes only: