topic Re: How to connect NetApp DS2246 with Cisco Catalyst 2960? in ONTAP Discussions

How to connect NetApp DS2246 with Cisco Catalyst 2960?

Frederic — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 10:21:58 GMT

Hello,

I have bought a used NetApp DS2246 and a switch: Cisco Catalyst 2960 Series PoE-48.

I am new to the data storage area and just want to set up a simple NAS.

I have watched many tutorials and tried to find the needed informtion to get it to work.

I have figured out:

1. the DS2246 uses SAS cables to connect to the switch for data transfer

2. the built in LAN ports are only for management access

3. Maybe i need another device (FAS) for it to work?

4. My switch has 2 SFP ports

Is there any way to connect my DS with my switch?

Is there a special cable from SAS to SFP?

Or what else am i missing?

Any help would be appreciated.

Re: How to connect NetApp DS2246 with Cisco Catalyst 2960?

Frederic — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 15:15:42 GMT

Update: I'm not sure if the connectors at the switch are SFP.

Here is a picture:

Is this SFP? (the 2 upper ones on the right)

Re: How to connect NetApp DS2246 with Cisco Catalyst 2960?

Drew_C — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 15:41:27 GMT

Hi Frederic,

Yes those two ports are are the SFP ports. You'll need the actual transceiver installed there to connect the fiber.

Re: How to connect NetApp DS2246 with Cisco Catalyst 2960?

paul_stejskal — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 15:22:25 GMT

The DS2246 is just a shelf of disks. The IOM controllers only provide an interface to hook a SAS cable to. For actual serving of data you need a FAS unit. Some people have installed SAS HBAs in regular servers and there may be support in /r/techsupport on Reddit, but obviously we don't discuss that here. I'm just acknowledging it is possible.

I would get a FAS unit if you want a home built NAS.