Fiber Channel over Ethernet
(also FCoE)
Fiber Channel over Ethernet definition
Fiber Channel over Ethernet is a network technology that enables the transport of Fiber Channel traffic over Ethernet networks. FCoE simplifies data center architectures by converging storage and network traffic onto a single cable.
See also: Fiber Channel storage area network
History of Fiber Channel over Ethernet
Fiber Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) emerged in the mid-2000s. It merged Fiber Channel’s high-speed data transfer with Ethernet’s scalability. Standardized in 2009, FCoE was developed to streamline data center operations by converging separate networks for storage and data traffic onto a single infrastructure.
Major industry players like Cisco and Intel supported this innovation. They facilitated its integration into mainstream data centers. FCoE’s role in simplifying network complexities and reducing costs has been pivotal in evolving data centers.
Use cases of Fiber Channel over Ethernet
- Data center consolidation. FCoE is used in data centers to merge storage and Ethernet networks into one unified network fabric.
- Virtualization environments. FCoE facilitates efficient communication between servers and storage systems in virtualized data centers. It enables high-speed data transfer and seamless connectivity.
- Disaster recovery and business continuity. FCoE is instrumental in implementing robust disaster recovery strategies. It ensures fast and reliable data replication between primary and secondary storage locations.