W2003 cluster, HSG80 - upgrade to SecurePath

[scott haddow_1]

I'm running a Storageworks SAN with an MA8000. There is an existing Windows2003 cluster installation which was installed with only single pathing functionality. (Not supported I know..)

I want to bring this cluster into a redundant state by installing Secure Path, however the signatures for the existing disks will then change and be offline for the cluster (as stated in the Secure Path manual).

What is the easiest way to migrate from a single pathing solution to a multipathing solution in this scenario?

Is downtime unavoidable?

[RBaker · Accepted solution]

I'm assuming you are already in Multibus mode and have existing multipath clients, otherwise NO.

Otherwise (make sure you have spare underwear) Failover to one node, disable access to the other using SSP (set dx disable=etc.)

Install additional card(s) on the second node, drivers, securepath etc. DON'T connect your fibre yet.

Enable access to ONE of the old connections for the second node to one of your units. Plug in one of the cards and wait for plug and play to do it's stuff (might need a reboot).

When the disk comes up make sure it comes up as securepath disk not DEC HSG80, otherwise update DISK driver so that it is. Once you are ok then add the second piece of fibre, enable access to the new connection and repeat the disk driver check. If you are using all four connections then do the same for the other two, checking at each stage.

Do this with all your units then failover from the first node and repeat.