This release of the Microsoft iSCSI Software Target introduces a number of new and updated features. This topic summarizes those features.

Updates for Windows Server 2008 Support

  • Failover cluster functionality – The Microsoft iSCSI Software Target requires that cluster resource groups be created prior to creating iSCSI targets and virtual disks. Use the Failover Cluster Management tool to create resource groups.

  • Installation package uses Windows Installer – To fully support the Microsoft iSCSI Software Target on Windows Server 2008, the installer package was changed to use the Windows Installer (.msi) format.

Security, Network, and Protocol Enhancements

  • IPv6 Support - Microsoft iSCSI Software Target 3.2 supports environments that use only the IPv6 protocol, and supports the use of IPv6 resources for failover clusters.

  • Enhanced security for storing CHAP secrets – CHAP secrets are now stored more securely on both standalone and clustered storage appliances.

  • ERL0-compliant connection and session reinstatement - Microsoft iSCSI Software Target 3.2 is Error Level 0 compliant, fully supporting connection and session reinstatement in the event they are closed.

User Experience Changes

  • Server Manager integration – The Microsoft iSCSI Software Target 3.2 console is integrated under the Storage node in Server Manager.

  • Russian localization available – The Russian language is a new localization option for this release of the Microsoft iSCSI Software Target.