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Configuring Fibre Channel Interfaces
About Interface Modes
Each physical Fibre Channel interface in a switch may operate in one of several modes: E port, F port,
FL port, TL port, TE port, and SD port. Besides these modes, each interface may be configured in auto
or Fx port mode. These two modes determine the port type during interface initialization.
shows different interface modes.
Figure 12-1
NL port
Interfaces are created in VSAN 1 by default.
Each interface has an associated administrative configuration and an operational status:
•
•
E Port
In expansion port (E port) mode, an interface functions as a fabric expansion port. This port may be
connected to another E port to create an Inter-Switch Link (ISL) between two switches. E ports carry
frames between switches for configuration and fabric management. They serve as a conduit between
switches for frames destined to remote N ports and NL ports. E ports support class 2, class 3, and class
F service.
An E port connected to another switch may also be configured to form a PortChannel
F Port
In fabric port (F port) mode, an interface functions as a fabric port. This port may be connected to a
peripheral device (host or disk) operating as an N port. An F port can be attached to only one N port. F
ports support class 2 and class 3 service.
Cisco MDS 9000 Fabric Manager Switch Configuration Guide
12-2
Cisco MDS 9000 Family Switch Interface Modes
N port
F port
E port
FL port
TE port
Public
loop
NL port
The administrative configuration does not change unless you modify it. This configuration has
various attributes that you can configure in administrative mode.
The operational status represents the current status of a specified attribute like the interface speed.
This status cannot be changed and is read-only. Some values may not be valid when the interface is
down (for example, the operational speed).
L port
ISL lin k
E port
EISL lin k
TE port
SD port
Chapter 12
Configuring Interfaces
Figure 12-1
L port
p
Private
loop
TL port
Analyzer
OL-7753-01
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