> # NPV Overview

> N port virtualization (NPV) reduces the number of Fibre Channel domain IDs in SANs. Switches operating in the NPV mode do not join a fabric. They pass traffic between NPV core switch links and end devices, which eliminates the domain IDs for these edge switches.

> NPV is supported by the following Cisco MDS 9000 switches and Cisco Nexus 5000 Series switches only:

> - Cisco MDS 9124 Multilayer Fabric Switch
> - Cisco MDS 9134 Fabric Switch
> - Cisco MDS 9148 Multilayer Fabric Switch
> - Cisco Fabric Switch for HP c-Class BladeSystem
> - Cisco Fabric Switch for IBM BladeCenter
> - Cisco Nexus 5000 Series switches

> Note NPV is available on these switches only while in NPV mode; if in switch mode, NPV is not available.

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