Abstract: The present invention features a method for performing an end-to-end data path integrity check in a computer or computer-like system such as a storage router. A predetermined data test pattern is stored in a memory and then transmitted across a data path by a data initiator to a data receiver. The received data test pattern is then retransmitted to the data initiator where it is compared to the original data. Any discrepancies cause an error condition to be declared. The data path may be disabled until the defective component in the data path is isolated and fixed. The method is hardware independent so it may be easily used in an open systems environment where hardware components may be provided by different vendors.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method and architecture for establishing independent, secure, trusted sub-networks within a storage area network (SAN). These virtual private SANs allow secure, managed interconnections between an initiator host and a target storage device or a logical unit number (LUN) indicating a sub-portion of a target storage device. A table of allowable configurations along with a connections database are used to ensure proper, allowable data connections.

Abstract: The present invention features a method for improving data flow from a host initiator on a first data bus to a target tape storage device on a second data bus, both buses being connected to one another by an I/O bridge or gateway. The inventive method allows the I/O bridge to return a slightly early write completion status to the host initiator before data is transmitted to the tape storage device and before the tape write operation is physically complete. The host initiator may then issue additional tape write commands and data may actually be transferred to buffer memory of the I/O bridge or gateway before the first tape write operation has been completed. This improves data throughput between host initiators and target tape storage devices, particularly in a storage area network (SAN).