The Internet Small Computer System Interface or iSCSI, is an end-to-end protocol for transporting storage I/O block data over an IP network. The protocol is used on servers (initiators), storage devices (targets) and protocol transfer gateway devices. iSCSI uses standard Ethernet switches and routers to move the data from server to storage. It also enables IP and Ethernet infrastructure to be used for expanding access to SAN storage and extending SAN connectivity across any distance. The technology is based on SCSI commands used in storage traffic today and IP protocols for networking.

iSCSI builds on the two most widely used protocols from the storage and networking worlds. From the storage side, iSCSI uses the SCSI command set, the core storage commands used throughout all storage configurations.

On the networking side, iSCSI uses IP and Ethernet, which are the basis for most corporate networks.

Implementations of iSCSI will rely on 10 Gigabit Ethernet technology since applications like synchronous mirroring demand low latency. This remains a barrier for acceptance for the Small to Medium Sized Enterprises since 10GbE is remains cost prohibitive.

StorageLight’s iQ™ network appliance interfaces with the iSCSI initiator and manages the transmit queue destined for the remote storage target device while allowing for a smaller bandwidth network connection. Applications that will benefit from the iQ transfer queue capability include real-time mirroring, centralized storage for small departmental LAN’s, centralized backup of departmental data (eliminating the need for tape backups) and remote offsite storage for disaster contingency purposes.