CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005)Server Hardware Installation and ManagementMedium
A server administrator is configuring a new storage array for a virtualized environment that requires shared block-level storage access over a standard Ethernet network. The administrator wants to leverage existing network infrastructure as much as possible to minimize costs. Which protocol should the administrator choose for this storage solution?
- AServer Message Block (SMB)
- BNetwork File System (NFS)
- CFibre Channel (FC)
- DiSCSI
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. iSCSI
iSCSI allows block-level storage to be accessed over standard Ethernet networks, making it a cost-effective solution that leverages existing infrastructure without requiring specialized hardware like Fibre Channel. NFS and SMB are file-level protocols, not block-level.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. SMB is a file-level protocol, not block-level, and does not meet the requirement.
- B. NFS is a file-level protocol, not block-level, and does not meet the requirement.
- C. Fibre Channel requires specialized HBAs and switches, which would not leverage existing Ethernet infrastructure.
iSCSI (Internet Small Computer System Interface)
A network storage protocol that allows SCSI commands to be sent over a standard TCP/IP network, providing block-level access to storage devices over Ethernet.
- Provides block-level storage access.
- Leverages existing Ethernet infrastructure, reducing costs.
- Can be implemented with standard NICs or specialized iSCSI HBAs.
- Commonly used for SANs where Fibre Channel is too expensive or complex.
Memory trick: iSCSI: 'I See SCSI' over IP.