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Data ONTAP systems that can use array LUNs on storage arrays

V-Series ("V") systems and new FAS platforms released in Data ONTAP 8.2.1 and later can use array LUNs if the proper license is installed. In discussions in the Data ONTAP and FlexArray Virtualization documentation, these systems are collectively referred to as Data ONTAP systems when it is necessary to make it clear which information applies to them and what information applies to storage arrays.

Note: Starting with Data ONTAP 8.2.1, the capability of using LUNs on a storage array, formerly identified as V-Series functionality, has a new name—Data ONTAP FlexArray Virtualization Software. The capability of using array LUNs continues to be available as a licensed feature in Data ONTAP.

Systems prior to Data ONTAP 8.2.1 that can use array LUNs

The only systems released prior to Data ONTAP 8.2.1 that can use array LUNs are V-Series systems—systems with a "V" or "GF" prefix. A V-Series system is an open storage controller that virtualizes storage from storage array vendors, native disks, or both into a single heterogeneous storage pool.

Note: Almost all Data ONTAP platforms released prior to Data ONTAP 8.2.1 were released with FAS and V-Series equivalent models (for example, a FAS6280 and a V6280 ). (For a few systems, there were no "V" equivalent models.) Although both types of models could access native disks, only the V-Series systems (a "V" or "GF" prefix) could attach to storage arrays.

Systems in Data ONTAP 8.2.1 and later that can use array LUNs

Starting with Data ONTAP 8.2.1, the model for how platforms are released and the storage they can use changes. Attaching to storage arrays is no longer limited to V-Series systems.

Starting with Data ONTAP 8.2.1, all new platforms are released as a single hardware model. This single hardware model has a FAS prefix; there are no longer separate "V" and FAS models for new platforms. If the V_StorageAttach license package is installed on a new FAS model, it can attach to storage arrays. (This is the same license required on a V-Series system.)

Important: FAS systems released prior to Data ONTAP 8.2.1 cannot use LUNs on storage arrays, even if they are upgraded to Data ONTAP 8.2.1 or later; only the "V" equivalent of a platform can use array LUNs.