Virtual Network; The Virtual Network - HP NetServer AA 4000 Administrator's Manual

Chapter 2

Virtual Network

In addition to the networking described above, the server includes a virtual network that
provides LAN-style connectivity between the CE and each IOP. This connectivity is
independent of any public (redirected) or private (IOP) network adapters.
Within this virtual network, the IOPs and CE appear as three interconnected nodes, as shown in
Figure 2-2.
Each IOP to CE virtual network is a separate LAN. There is no direct virtual LAN between the
two IOPs. (To have this capability, HP recommends that you install Enhanced IL networking.)
The virtual network requires no additional hardware.
Benefits of the virtual network include:
• IOP access to CE disks while online
• IOP access to redirected floppy drives and CD-ROMs
• CE access to IOP event logs, memory dumps, and other files
The virtual network includes the following components:
• Virtual Network Redirector (VNR)
• Virtual Network Provider (VNP)
Network transports are bound to VNR and VNP just as they would be bound to any standard
Network Interface Card. Ethernet addresses for all virtual adapters are automatically assigned
and are based on the Ethernet Vendor ID.
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Figure 2-2 The Virtual Network
HP NetServer AA Overview