MDS Features Making Their Way Into Cisco's Datacenter Equipment

An interesting trend is emerging in Cisco’s datacenter networking equipment - the integration of useful features from their MDS (director class storage switch) platform into core networking products. Here are two notable examples:

The “do” Command in IOS 12.4

One of the first MDS features to make its way into standard networking equipment is the “do” command, now available in configuration mode in IOS 12.4. This command allows you to execute exec commands from within the configuration section in IOS, eliminating the need to exit to your shell to run show commands. This seemingly simple addition significantly improves efficiency and accuracy in configuration tasks.

Call Home Feature in 6500 Series

The Call Home feature, a longtime favorite from the MDS platform, is now being integrated into the 6500 series switches with the release of 12.2(22)SXH (expected mid-August). This feature brings several key capabilities:

• Direct integration with Cisco TAC
• Integration with internal monitoring and management systems
• Tight coupling with GOLD (Generic On Line Diagnostics) tests

Automated Support Process

When GOLD tests identify a hardware problem, the system automatically:

1. Contacts TAC
2. Issues an RMA
3. Contacts an engineer
4. Ships parts to the device location

The target resolution time is SmartNet time + 1.5 hours. For example, with 4-hour SmartNet coverage, you could expect hardware onsite in approximately 5.5 hours, without any additional troubleshooting required.

These integrations demonstrate Cisco’s commitment to bringing proven features from their storage networking portfolio into their broader datacenter equipment lineup, improving operational efficiency and support automation across their product range.

For more information about SmartCall, visit: http://www.cisco.com/go/smartcall