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Is port-based load balancing recommended for iSCSI?

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ontap-9
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san
Last Updated:

Applies to

  • ONTAP 9
  • iSCSI
  • Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP)
  • Interface group (IFGRP)

Answer

Yes, it is.
  • Port‑based load balancing is recommended because:
    • It uses source IP, destination IP, and TCP/UDP port numbers in the hash.
    • It enables better distribution of iSCSI sessions across physical ports.
    • It improves bandwidth utilization and reduces the chance of traffic concentration on a single port.
  • Use port-based load balancing unless there is a specific reason or limitation in the network that prevents it.

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