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Changing NFS data paths to direct access

If you have a cluster node that is accessing a data LIF with an indirect data path, you can change the path to one that is direct. Virtual Storage Console for VMware vSphere provides information about the paths; however, the task of moving the path must be performed by a storage administrator using either the storage system console or a NetApp tool such as System Manager.

Before you begin

Only a storage administrator should change the path.

About this task

The need to change paths only occurs when your clustered Data ONTAP configuration has an NFS datastore using a remote data LIF that is bound to a different physical node than the one that owns the exported FlexVol.

Steps

  1. From the Virtual Storage Console Home page, click Storage > <storage system name> > Related Objects > NAS.
  2. Right-click a row that has an indirect data path (shown as Indirect) and select the View Direct Data Path Choices option.
    This option displays the Direct Data Path Choices pop-up, which contains a list of ports to data paths providing direct access. You cannot use this window to change the path, but you can use it to get information about the available ports.
  3. Manually check to make sure the port you want to use is connected to the network.
    VSC displays the ports without checking their network connectivity. If you try to use a port that is not connected to the network, your datastore will go offline.
  4. After you have confirmed that the path you want to use is connected to the network, collect the information displayed in the Direct Data Path Choices pop-up and give it to a storage administrator.
    The Direct Data Path Choices pop-up contains all the information a storage administrator needs to move the LIF.

    To create a data path with direct access, you must have the correct credentials.

    Note: If multiple datastores are using that LIF, moving the LIF will cause the other datastores to have data paths with indirect data access.
  5. Use either the storage system console or a NetApp tool such as System Manager to change the path.
    Note: Whenever the path value changes, VSC writes the information to a log file.