Abstract: A method and system are provided for a storage area network including a plurality of virtual servers. In one example, the system sends a storage area network message to a second virtual server to prepare to perform one or more functions associated with the storage area network. The system copies a first cache table associated with a first cache memory and a first virtual server to a second cache table associated with a second cache memory and the second virtual server. The system uses a processor to execute one or more storage requests in the second virtual server, by using the first cache memory to support the performance of the one or more functions by the second virtual server, and without completely filling cache data into the second cache memory.

Abstract: A method for a storage area network includes setting a priority indicator in a signal of a storage request to form a high priority storage request for a storage target in the storage area network. The method further includes transmitting the high priority storage request to the storage target before the transmission of at least one normal priority storage request. The high priority storage request then traverses the storage area network with a higher priority than a normal priority storage request to the storage target. Upon receiving the high priority storage request, the storage target executes the high priority storage request prior to executing at least one normal priority storage request.

Abstract: A method of communication between networked devices in a local storage area network includes forming a message for in-band communication within a local storage area network. The message includes at least one major task and one or more associated sub tasks for execution within the storage area network. The method further includes establishing a first communication link at least between a first networked device and a second networked device in response to the formation of the message; transmitting the message from the first networked device to at least the second networked device within the local storage area network; and in response to receiving the message, executing the sub tasks within the message with a processor to complete the major task and support local storage area network functionality.

Abstract: A method of communication between networked devices in a local storage area network includes forming a message for in-band communication within a local storage area network. The message includes at least one major task and one or more associated sub tasks for execution within the storage area network. The method further includes establishing a first communication link at least between a first networked device and a second networked device in response to the formation of the message; transmitting the message from the first networked device to at least the second networked device within the local storage area network; and in response to receiving the message, executing the sub tasks within the message with a processor to complete the major task and support local storage area network functionality.