The Cisco MDS 9216A Multilayer Fabric Switch brings new capability and investment protection to the fabric switch market. Sharing a consistent architecture with the Cisco MDS 9500 Series, the Cisco MDS 9216A combines multilayer intelligence with a modular chassis, making it the industry's most intelligent and flexible fabric switch. Starting with sixteen 2-Gbps Fiber Channel ports, the expansion slot on the Cisco MDS 9216A allows for the addition of any current or future Cisco MDS 9000 Family module for up to 48 total ports. As the storage network expands further, Cisco MDS 9000 Family modules can be removed from Cisco MDS 9216A and migrated into Cisco MDS 9500 Series Multilayer Directors, providing smooth migration, common sparing, and outstanding investment protection.