The network itself is often the biggest source of complexity in a production environment. Removing as much of the network as possible between the client and storage is a good first step.
- If possible, connect the macOS client directly into one of the PowerScale front-end network ports.
- Otherwise connect the macOS system into the same switch as the PowerScale front-end ports.
- If plugged through a switch, verify that flow control (RX and TX) is enabled for all macOS and storage ports.
- • Verify that the macOS system is on the same subnet and VLAN as the PowerScale and that no routing is required for the client system to access the storage.
- Use standard 1500 MTU size. Also, confirm that ping times between the macOS client and PowerScale are low (and conversely).
- 9000 MTU can provide extra performance in macOS for the most demanding workflows. Unfortunately, 9000 MTU often causes more problems than it solves due to MTU mismatch on the network. Having all devices work well using 1500 MTU first and then experimenting with 9000 MTU is the recommended path.
If good performance is achieved with these steps, try advancing one network hop at a time to determine where functionality breaks down and efforts must be focused.