Server identification assignment in a distributed switched storage environment

摘要

A method and apparatus are provided for assigning/obtaining enclosure identification numbers in a distributed switch storage system. The method takes advantage a network topology wherein one port on the switch is always used as a downstream connection (towards a control station) and one always used as an upstream connection (away from the control station). Using single-hop type packets an assignment arbitration protocol ensures that each enclosure is assigned a unique and predictable Enclosure ID.