To a lot of business buyers, fiber channel switches are no more than a random part of the "alphabet soup" around new technology. Basically, a fiber channel switch is a tool used as part of a fiber channel network, which is most popular as a medium for storage. A fiber channel system is a way to move data around between workstations, devices and storage facilities and can be set up in several ways including a point-to-point system or a ring. This is similar in concept to the setups used in token ring networking.

Fiber channel switches facilitate this process using a fiber channel protocol (FCP), sometimes utilizing SCSI commands between drives or devices. Business managers might use fiber channel switches and technologies:

1. To facilitate a funneling transfer of large amounts of data into a central storage location.

2. To link up drives for handy compatibility, where fiber channel switches are gateways for information on an internal superhighway (not unlike the old Internet metaphor).

3. As a general networking tool within a comprehensive office system.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find Cisco switches and fiber channel computer products

A leader in the IT field, Cisco has been rolling out some high-powered fiber channel switches, routers and other fiber channel computer products and equipment to hook up clients with high-speed, durable data access. Regular clients keep up on the continually emerging capabilities of Cisco products.

I recommend: Get 24-port MDS 9124 Cisco network fiber channel switches and other models at PC Connection, Inc. a vendor of Cisco fiber channel technologies and pieces. Re-up your Cisco 9000 or 9124 models at discount prices using ReStockIt.com, another Cisco supplier.

Buy fiber channel switches from Hewlett Packard and subsidiaries

Sure, HP ships desktops and laptop models by the ton worldwide, but they don't just sell PCs. Buyers can find deals on fiber channel network switches and other gear from HP through dedicated retailers and take advantage of HP's prowess in this emerging technology.

I recommend: Find multi-port HP fiber channel fabric switches and more at Super Warehouse. You can also buy direct from the company online: browse HP StorageWorks products including fiber channel switches and fiber channel switching components.

Locate other fiber channel networking switches from other suppliers of fiber channel switches

From the Brocade company, another fiber channel switch provider which is acquiring smaller companies and taking a good corner of the fiber channel networking business, to other dealers like QLogic, buyers can shop around for deals on fiber channel switches to add to an existing network.

I recommend: Find QLogic "SanBox" products like network fiber channel switches and more at Abtech Systems. For Brocade SilkWorm products, some at low prices, try TXcessSurplus.com.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Iron out size and compatibility issues when shopping for fiber channel switches. Evaluate your system's needs closely to avoid 'over-purchasing' for your growing network.