d error-checking bits are used at the end of each frame. The goal in implementing FCoE is to create less complex networks with fewer types of ports to support as well as improve on the utilization of ports. It is hoped that this will be a step toward decreasing the complexity of networks within organizations. If implemented in conjunction with virtual switches and physical servers, it can reduce space, power, and cooling requirements because the same network interfaces (ports) can be used for communications between Ethernet and SANs. Next-Generation Data Centers: Virtualization and Gigabit Speeds Converged Ports Able to Communicate with Ethernet and Fibre Channel Networks Server Switch Switch and server with Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) Converged Network Adapter (CNA) ports that communicate with Fibre Channel storage networks by using FCoE Figure 2-2 Switches and servers with converged network adapters. The Costs and Operational Issues of FCoE FCoE is in the early stages of implementation, and although it has advantages-par- ticularly for large enterprises-there are organizational and cost issues as well as ben- efits. As is common with early stages of product introductions, prices are high. In addition, older switches are not always compatible with the protocol, SO implementing the protocol might require new hardware. Moreover, there is a learning curve for staff members. In large data centers, sepa- rate groups specialize in and manage storage, and a different group manages and has expertise in networking. However, when FCoE is implemented, the functions of the networking and storage groups overlap, requiring that the groups work together in understanding, implementing, and managing the FCoE services. Network Operating Systems LAN Network Operating System (NOS) software is located on specialized computers called file servers in the LAN. A NOS-also referred to simply as the operating system (OS)-defines consistent ways for software to use LAN hardware and for software on computers to interoperate with the 