Abstract: A method for managing bandwidth allocation in a storage area network includes monitoring a response time of data storage resources to requests from applications on at least two client devices to produce response time data determining whether a trigger condition is met based on the response time data; and, if said trigger condition is met, adjusting bandwidth allocation levels of the applications. A system for implementing this method may include a management station configured to control bandwidth between one or more data storage devices and a plurality of applications that run on one or more client devices. The management station monitors response times in which the data storage device responds to requests from the applications and adjusts bandwidth allocations for the applications based on the response times.

Abstract: A storage area network preferably includes a client device, a data storage device, and at least two data pathways between the client device and the data storage device in which the client device can establish a command path for controlling the data storage device. The client device is configured to establish a new command path in a different pathway upon failure of an existing command path.