Brocade SAN switch models

Dell sold the Brocade 300 under its own part numbers (DL-320 series), and those are the same switch. Don't see the model you need in stock? Ask us for a quote.

Active ports and licences

Physical port count and licensed port count can differ. The number of active ports is set by the Ports on Demand licences on the unit, and each listing states it, for example "48x SFP+ (24x Active)". Buy the unit with the active port count you need. Do not assume an unlicensed port can be turned on later: Broadcom no longer sells Ports on Demand upgrades for the 6505 and 6510. If you need more ports, ask us to check the specific unit before you order.

Power supplies, fans and optics

This collection also carries replacement power supplies and fans for the 5100, 6500 series, DCX 8510 and SilkWorm 4100, and Brocade-branded Fibre Channel optics from 4 Gb to 32 Gb. When choosing an optic, match the link speed you need, the wavelength and reach, and the fiber type (multimode or single-mode), and use a transceiver supported for your Brocade model and Fabric OS.

Choosing an 8 Gb, 16 Gb or FCIP Brocade switch

Match what is already in your SAN. Choose the 300 or 5100 to replace or add to an 8 Gb fabric, the 300 for a few servers and the 5100 when you need more ports in one rack unit. Choose a 6505, 6510 or 6520 to replace or expand a 16 Gb fabric, sized by the number of ports you need. Choose the 7800 to replicate storage between two data centers over an IP link.

Frequently asked questions

Can I mix 8 Gb and 16 Gb Brocade switches in one fabric?
Often, yes, but it depends on firmware. Broadcom supports Gen 5 switches alongside 8 Gb platforms when both run compatible Fabric OS; older firmware may only connect through Fibre Channel routing. Check the Fabric OS on both switches and your fabric configuration before adding a switch.

What should I check before replacing a switch in an existing SAN?
Match the model and the number of active ports on the switch you are replacing, and check the Fabric OS it runs, the airflow direction of its power supplies and fans, and the optics in use. If you send us the details, we will confirm the replacement before you order.

Do you also sell Cisco Fibre Channel switches?
Yes. See our Cisco MDS SAN switches. Cisco MDS and Brocade switches do not join the same fabric.

NetworkTigers has sold enterprise networking equipment since 1996, and every unit carries a 365-day warranty. Ask us for a quote.