> # About iSNS Server Functionality

> When enabled, the iSNS server on the Cisco 9000 Family MDS switch tracks all registered iSCSI devices. As a result, iSNS clients can locate other iSNS clients by querying the iSNS server. The iSNS server also provides the following functionalities:

> - Allows iSNS clients to register, deregister, and query other iSNS clients registered with the iSNS server.
> - Provides centralized management for enforcing access control to provide or deny access to targets from specific initiators.
> - Provides a notification mechanism for registered iSNS clients to receive change notifications on the status change of other iSNS clients.
> - Provides a single access control configuration for both Fibre Channel and iSCSI devices.
> - Discovers iSCSI targets that do not have direct IP connectivity to the iSCSI initiators.

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