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Differences between the ONTAP MetroCluster configurations

The various MetroCluster configurations have key differences in the required components.

In all configurations, each of the two MetroCluster sites is configured as an ONTAP cluster. In a two-node MetroCluster configuration, each node is configured as a single-node cluster.

FeatureIP configurationsFabric-attached configurations
Four- or eight-node
Number of controllersFourFour or eight
Uses an FC switch storage fabricNoYes
Uses an IP switch storage fabricYesNo
Uses FC-to-SAS bridgesNoYes
Uses direct-attached SAS storageYes (local attached only)No
Supports ADPYes (starting in ONTAP 9.4)No
Supports local HAYesYes
Supports automatic switchoverNoYes
Supports unmirrored aggregatesNoYes
  • Access to remote storage in MetroCluster IP configurations
    In MetroCluster IP configurations, the only way the local controllers can reach the remote storage pools is via the remote controllers. The IP switches are connected to the Ethernet ports on the controllers; they do not have direct connections to the disk shelves. If the remote controller is down, the local controllers cannot reach their remote storage pools.