The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are essential for maximizing the performance and reliability of PS Series iSCSI storage arrays. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to download, install, and utilize these tools for Windows, VMware, and Linux environments. Where to Download Dell EqualLogic HIT
The official method for obtaining the latest version of the Host Integration Tools is through the Dell EqualLogic Support Portal.
Official Downloads: Most users should access the Microsoft v5.5.0 KB article for the most current Windows version.
Support Account Required: Accessing the download files generally requires an active support contract and a Dell EqualLogic support account.
Download Options: Kits are available as 32-bit or 64-bit .exe files, .msi files for Active Directory deployments, or ISO images for creating installation media. Version & OS Compatibility
Before downloading, ensure the HIT version matches your host operating system and array firmware: Latest Known Version Supported Operating Systems Microsoft v5.5.0 Windows Server 2012 R2, 2016, 2019, and Windows 10. Linux v1.9.0
RHEL (7.5 - 8.0), SLES (12 SP5, 15), Oracle Linux (7.5 - 8.0). VMware vSphere Plugin vSphere 6.5, 6.7, and 7.0. Key Features of the HIT Kit Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v5.5.0
The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) remain a vital lifeline for admins maintaining the robust, though aging, PS Series storage arrays. While modern data centers have largely shifted to Dell PowerStore, the "HIT Kit" is still the secret sauce that makes legacy EqualLogic hardware play nice with modern operating systems. The Latest Version: HIT v5.5.0
The most current iteration for Windows environments is v5.5.0, which is designed to bridge the gap for older hardware. This version explicitly supports:
Operating Systems: Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, and Windows 10.
Applications: SQL Server (2016-2017), Exchange (2016-2019), and SharePoint (2016-2019).
Virtualization: Hyper-V and System Center Virtual Machine Manager (SCVMM) 2016/2019. How to Download the "HIT Kit"
Downloading the software isn't as simple as a public link; it requires a Dell Support Account with an active service contract for your array. Access the Portal: Head to eqlsupport.dell.com and log in.
Locate Downloads: Navigate to the Downloads section on the gray toolbar.
Find the Kit: Scroll to "Host Integration Tools for Microsoft" and select the latest recommended version.
Choose Your Package: You’ll typically find 32-bit and 64-bit .exe installers, along with .iso files for creating bootable media. Why You Need It
Installing the HIT kit isn't just about drivers; it automates complex backend configurations that would be a nightmare to do manually: Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v5.5.0
Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are a suite of software components designed to bridge the gap between Dell PS Series storage arrays and host operating systems like Microsoft Windows, Linux, and VMware. By automating complex storage tasks and ensuring application consistency during backups, these tools transform a standard SAN into a highly intelligent, integrated infrastructure. The Core Value of Host Integration
Modern data centers demand more than just raw storage; they require seamless communication between the hardware and the applications running on it. The HIT suite facilitates this by providing: Application-Consistent Data Protection : Through the Auto-Snapshot Manager (ASM)
, the software coordinates with applications like SQL Server, Exchange, and Hyper-V to ensure snapshots are "application-aware," meaning they can be restored without data corruption. Performance Optimization Multipath I/O (MPIO)
component intelligently manages iSCSI traffic across multiple network paths, increasing bandwidth and providing automatic failover if a connection drops. Simplified Management : Tools like the Remote Setup Wizard (RSW) PowerShell Tools
automate the discovery and initialization of new arrays, reducing the time required for deployment from hours to minutes. Platform-Specific Capabilities
Dell offers tailored versions of the HIT kit for different environments: Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v5.5.0
The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are a suite of software designed to simplify the management of Dell PS Series storage arrays. These tools allow servers running Microsoft Windows, VMware, or Linux to communicate directly with the storage array to automate tasks like backup, recovery, and performance tuning. Key Features and Benefits
Automated Management: Includes the Remote Setup Wizard (RSW), which simplifies the traditionally tedious discovery and initial configuration of SAN arrays.
Data Protection: Features like Auto-Snapshot Manager (ASM) allow for "Smart Copies"—application-consistent snapshots and clones—across platforms like SQL Server, Exchange, and Hyper-V.
Optimized Performance: Provides native Multipath I/O (MPIO) drivers that intelligently balance iSCSI traffic across multiple network paths for higher reliability and throughput. Platform-Specific Editions:
HIT/Microsoft: Integrates with VSS for backups and offers PowerShell tools for automation.
HIT/VMware: Includes a vSphere plugin for managing datastores and virtual machine snapshots directly from vCenter.
HIT/Linux: Provides a CLI and the EQLTUNE suite to verify and correct system parameters for optimal iSCSI performance. How to Download Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v5.1.0
The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) can be downloaded directly from the official Dell Support site. These tools allow you to manage PS Series storage arrays, create application-consistent snapshots, and configure multipath I/O (MPIO). Download Instructions
To obtain the installation kit, follow these steps provided by Dell Technologies Support: Visit the Portal: Go to eqlsupport.dell.com.
Log In: Sign in to your Dell account. An active support contract is typically required to access firmware and software updates.
Navigate to Downloads: Click Downloads on the toolbar and select Host Integration Tools for Microsoft (or Linux, depending on your OS).
Select Version: Choose the latest recommended version, such as v5.5.0, which is currently supported for modern Windows environments.
Choose Architecture: Download the 32-bit or 64-bit executable (.exe) or ISO file as needed for your host. Version Compatibility (v5.5.0)
The latest version supports the following environments and features:
Operating Systems: Windows Server 2019, 2016, 2012 R2, and Windows 10.
Storage Support: Compatible with PS Series firmware version 10.0.0 and later.
Key Feature: Includes support for importing EqualLogic storage to PowerStore for PS Series firmware 10.0.3. Alternative for Linux
If you are running a Linux environment, you can download HIT for Linux v1.9.0 from the Dell Knowledge Base, which includes specific installation guides for RHEL and other distributions.
Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are specialized software packages that bridge the gap between your servers and PS Series storage arrays, automating management and optimizing performance. Download Links & Access
Official downloads are hosted on the Dell Support website. Access typically requires an active Dell ProSupport agreement.
Microsoft Edition (HIT/ME): Version 5.5.0 is the latest, supporting Windows Server 2019 and applications like SQL Server 2017. Download HIT for Microsoft v5.5.0
Linux Edition (HIT/LE): Version 1.9.0 is the latest, supporting RHEL 8.0, SLES 15, and Oracle Linux. Download HIT for Linux v1.9.0
VMware Edition: Usually delivered as part of the Virtual Storage Manager (VSM) or separate plugins for vCenter. Key Components & Features
Auto-Snapshot Manager (ASM): Provides application-consistent backups for SQL, Exchange, and Hyper-V. dell equallogic host integration tools download
Multipath I/O (MPIO): Optimizes iSCSI traffic across multiple network paths for higher bandwidth and failover protection.
Remote Setup Wizard (RSW): Simplifies the initial discovery and initialization of new arrays.
PowerShell Tools: Automates routine storage management tasks through a comprehensive set of cmdlets.
Storage Management Provider (SMP): Integrates with System Center Virtual Machine Manager (SCVMM) for seamless VM provisioning. Installation Best Practices
Running an Equallogic SAN without HIT is like driving a sports car with flat tires. Without the DSM, your OS only sees raw iSCSI LUNs and cannot:
Thus, downloading and installing the correct HIT version is not optional—it is a maintenance imperative.
HIT includes a tuning module that modifies TCP offloading, interrupt moderation, and iSCSI timeout values specific to EqualLogic’s recommendation. Without this, you may see disconnects or poor throughput.
Published: October 18, 2023 | Category: Storage Legacy | Reading Time: 4 minutes
If you are reading this, you likely fall into one of two camps.
Camp A: You are managing a perfectly stable, out-of-warranty Dell EqualLogic PS Series array that has been running for a decade. You need to patch a new Windows Hyper-V host or refresh a VMware ESXi server, and you desperately need the Host Integration Tools (HIT) kit.
Camp B: You are in the middle of a disaster recovery (DR) scenario. Your old hosts crashed, you’re rebuilding, and you just realized the original ISO download links are dead.
Welcome to the struggle. Finding the Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT Kit) download in 2023/2024 is not like downloading a printer driver. Dell has officially declared the EqualLogic line "End of Life" (EOL). The software has been moved to the "Legacy" vault, and navigating Dell’s modern support site feels like searching for a book in a library that has been downsized to a broom closet.
Here is your detailed guide on how to find, download, and verify the HIT kit.
The Dell Equallogic Host Integration Tools download process may seem daunting due to Dell’s product sunset, but it remains possible through careful navigation of support archives. These tools are the linchpin of a reliable, high-performance SAN environment. By following the version compatibility guidance and installation steps in this guide, you can safely deploy or re-deploy HIT on your Windows, Linux, or VMware hosts.
Final checklist before downloading:
If your search for Dell Equallogic Host Integration Tools download brought you here, you now have the knowledge to not only find the right file but also to install it correctly and keep your storage running smoothly for years to come.
Need help identifying your HIT version? Run Get-EqlHostIntegrationToolsVersion in PowerShell after installation. For further reading, refer to Dell’s official "HIT/SM 4.x User Guide" (PDF also available via support site).
To download the Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT)
, you must access the dedicated EqualLogic support portal, which requires an active support account and contract. Spiceworks Community Download Instructions Access the Portal: Navigate to the Dell EqualLogic Support Website
Sign in with your support credentials. If you do not have an account, you must create one, which typically requires a valid Service Tag Serial Number from a PS Series array. Navigate to Downloads: On the main toolbar, select the Locate the Host Integration Tools link (available for both Microsoft and Linux environments). Select Version:
Choose the latest recommended version. Recent stable releases include: Microsoft Edition (HIT/ME): Linux Edition (HIT/Linux):
Select the appropriate executable (32-bit or 64-bit for Windows) and save the file to your host machine. Core Components Included
The HIT kit provides essential utilities to optimize the performance and reliability of your PS Series storage:
The IT Manager's Dilemma
John, the IT manager at a medium-sized company, was facing a challenge. His team was struggling to manage the company's storage infrastructure, which was comprised of Dell EqualLogic PS series storage arrays. The team was spending too much time on mundane tasks, such as monitoring storage performance, managing LUNs, and configuring access control.
One day, while browsing the Dell website, John stumbled upon the Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HITs). He read that these tools were designed to simplify the management of EqualLogic storage arrays and improve the overall efficiency of his team.
The Discovery
Intrigued, John clicked on the "Download" button to get the HITs software. He was directed to the Dell Support website, where he had to navigate through a few pages to find the correct download link. After filling out a short registration form, he was able to access the download page.
The HITs software package included several tools, including:
The Installation
John downloaded the HITs software package and began the installation process. The installation was straightforward, and the wizard-guided process made it easy to select the tools he wanted to install.
After completing the installation, John rebooted the server and launched the EHT tool. He was impressed by the intuitive interface, which provided a clear overview of his storage infrastructure. He could easily monitor performance, manage LUNs, and configure access control.
The Benefits
With the HITs tools installed, John's team was able to significantly improve their productivity. They could now manage the storage infrastructure more efficiently, freeing up time to focus on more strategic initiatives.
The HITs tools also provided several other benefits, including:
The Verdict
John was thrilled with the results. He had successfully downloaded and installed the Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools, and his team was already reaping the benefits. He highly recommended the HITs tools to other IT managers who were struggling with storage management.
From that day on, John's team was able to manage the storage infrastructure with ease, freeing up time to focus on more strategic initiatives. The HITs tools had become an essential part of their storage management toolkit, and they couldn't imagine going back to the old way of doing things.
The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are a suite of software components designed to simplify the management, performance, and data protection of Dell EqualLogic PS Series storage arrays from the servers that use them. Key Components and Functionality
The HIT kit (often referred to as the "HIT Kit") includes several essential tools for server administrators:
Auto-Snapshot Manager (ASM): Provides application-consistent snapshots, clones, and replicas for critical applications like Microsoft SQL Server, Exchange, and SharePoint.
Multipath I/O (MPIO) DSM: Dynamically balances iSCSI traffic across multiple network paths to ensure high availability and performance.
PowerShell Tools: Allows administrators to script management operations for PS Series groups.
Remote Setup Wizard (RSW): Simplifies the initial discovery and configuration of new PS Series arrays.
Storage Management Provider (SMP): Enables management through Windows Server 2012 R2 and later versions. Latest Version and Compatibility
As of recent updates, the latest recommended version for Windows environments is v5.5.0. Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v5.5.0 The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are
The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are a critical suite of software utilities designed to bridge the gap between your servers and Dell PS Series iSCSI storage arrays. By installing these tools, administrators can automate data protection, optimize multipath performance, and manage storage directly from familiar host-based operating systems. Where to Download Host Integration Tools
Official downloads are hosted exclusively on the Dell Support Portal. Because these tools are proprietary, a valid Dell ProSupport agreement is required for access.
Visit the Support Site: Navigate to the Dell EqualLogic Support Page.
Log In: Enter your credentials. If you do not have an account, you must create one using your product's service tag.
Navigate to Downloads: Select the "Downloads" tab and search for the specific version required for your environment.
Select Your Platform: Downloads are categorized by operating system: Microsoft Edition (HIT/ME): For Windows Server and Hyper-V. Linux Edition (HIT/LE): For RHEL, SLES, and Oracle Linux.
VMware Edition (HIT/VE): Specifically for vSphere environments. Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v5.5.0
🛠️ Guide: How to Download and Install Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT)
If you are managing a Dell EqualLogic PS Series storage array, the Host Integration Tools (HIT)
are essential. They allow you to seamlessly manage and configure storage directly from your servers, handle application-consistent snapshots, script management operations, and establish seamless Multipath I/O (MPIO).
Whether you are configuring a fresh environment or expanding an existing one, here is exactly how to grab the installer and set it up. 📥 Step 1: How to Download the HIT Kit
Dell provides specific versions for Microsoft Windows, Linux, and VMware environments. To download the software, follow these steps: www.sanstorageworks.com Go directly to the dedicated EqualLogic portal at eqlsupport.dell.com to your account.
Note: If you do not have an account, you can create one on the page. Accessing downloads requires an active support contract linked to your organization. Once logged in, click on on the main toolbar. Scroll down until you see the link for Host Integration Tools Host Integration Tools for Microsoft
Click on the latest recommended version displayed in the panel (such as version 5.5.0). Choose either the
file according to your operating system, and save it to a location accessible to your host server. ⚙️ Step 2: Key Installation Steps
Once you have downloaded the installation kit (or have it on a mounted ISO), proceed with the installation: Prerequisites:
Ensure you are logged in to the host machine as a user with full local administrator privileges Run the Installer: Double-click the downloaded package to fire up the installation wizard. Customize Components: Custom Setup
page, you can deselect components that are not required for your specific environment. PowerStore Migration Option: Pay attention to the Installation Type
If you plan to import legacy EqualLogic array volumes over to a newer Dell PowerStore array, select the option with import capability Otherwise, select the no import capability Let it Run:
The installer will automatically configure the native Windows MPIO service (if applicable) and append the necessary configuration rules to your host's firewall. 💡 Pro-Tips for Administrators Active Directory Deployment:
If you plan on pushing this installation out to dozens of servers simultaneously via Active Directory, download the installer instead of the executable. No Reboot for MPIO:
Updating MPIO load balancing policies generally does not require a system reboot, though you may need to restart the ASM snapshot manager UI to reflect the changes. Scripting:
Don't forget that the installation comes automatically packaged with powerful EqualLogic PowerShell Tools to automate your array operations! Further Exploration Review the official deployment procedures directly on the Dell Support Knowledge Base Walk through detailed setup guides by referencing the Dell EqualLogic HIT Microsoft Installation Manual Check out the Dell Support EqualLogic Linux Guide for deployment instructions on Linux environments.
Are you planning to deploy the Dell Host Integration Tools on virtualized VMware environment? Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v5.5.0
The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are essential software suites that optimize the connection between your hosts (Windows, Linux, or VMware) and EqualLogic PS Series SAN arrays. 🚀 Direct Access & Download
As of early 2026, Dell has transitioned much of the legacy EqualLogic documentation and software to the Dell Support Portal. Official Download Site: Dell Support - Drivers & Downloads
Identification: You will typically need to enter the Service Tag of one of your EqualLogic PS series members to access the specific HIT kit downloads.
Search Terms: Once logged in, search for "Host Integration Tools" or "HIT Kit." 🛠️ Key HIT Kit Variants
Depending on your infrastructure, you will need a specific version: 1. HIT for Windows (HIT/Microsoft)
Purpose: Enhances MPIO (Multi-Path I/O), adds PowerShell tools, and enables VSS (Volume Shadow Copy Service) snapshots.
Key Feature: Includes the Remote Setup Wizard for discovering and configuring new arrays. 2. HIT for VMware (HIT/VE)
Purpose: Integrates with vCenter to manage snapshots, replicas, and datastores directly from the vSphere client.
Key Feature: Includes the Virtual Storage Manager (VSM) appliance. 3. HIT for Linux
Purpose: Optimizes iSCSI connections and provides the eql-mpath tool for path management on distributions like RHEL, CentOS, or Ubuntu. 📋 Installation Guide (General Steps)
Verify Compatibility: Check the EqualLogic Compatibility Matrix to ensure the HIT version supports your array's firmware (e.g., Firmware v10.0.x).
Backup Configuration: Always perform a backup of your host and array configuration before installing or upgrading. Run the Installer: On Windows, run the .exe as an administrator.
A reboot is usually required to initialize the new MPIO drivers.
Configure MPIO: After installation, use the "Remote Setup Wizard" or "MPIO" applet in Windows to ensure the host recognizes multiple paths to the SAN.
Verify Connection: Use the ASM (Auto Snapshot Manager) to see if your EqualLogic volumes are visible and "optimized." ⚠️ Important Note on Legacy Status
The EqualLogic PS Series is considered End-of-Life (EOL) by Dell.
Software Availability: While downloads remain available for existing customers, new feature updates have largely ceased.
Transition: If you are planning a hardware refresh, Dell typically recommends migrating to PowerStore or PowerVault ME series.
If you can tell me your Operating System (e.g., Windows Server 2022, VMware ESXi 7.0) and your Array Firmware version, I can give you the exact compatibility requirements!
I notice you're asking me to "post" something related to downloading Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools.
However, I can't directly post content on your behalf to forums, social media, or internal company channels. But I can help you in a few ways:
If you need the download link – The official Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) for Windows, VMware, or Linux are available from Dell Support (usually requires a valid Service Tag or account). As of my knowledge cutoff, direct downloads are gated behind Dell's support site. Thus, downloading and installing the correct HIT version
If you want me to draft a post (e.g., for an internal IT team, Spiceworks, Reddit, or Dell Community forum) asking where to find the download – I can write that for you.
If you meant "paste" or "show me" the download info – I can provide the general steps and filenames (e.g., HIT-Windows-x64-version.exe).
Which one are you looking for? Let me know, and I'll give you exactly what you need.
Once upon a time in the silicon-veined heart of "The Rack," a weary SysAdmin named Elias stood before a flickering console. His storage arrays, the legendary Dell EqualLogic PS Series, were humming a restless tune. They held the kingdom’s most precious data, but the bridge between the servers and the steel was crumbling.
"The Multipath is drifting!" Elias cried, watching his I/O speeds plummet like a falling star. "If I cannot bind the Host to the Logic, the database will surely freeze by dawn."
He knew there was only one relic capable of restoring the balance: the Host Integration Tools (HIT) Kit. It was the mystical software layer that whispered to the firmware, aligning the MPIO paths and automating the snapshots.
Elias embarked on a digital quest to the Dell Support Portal. He navigated through the dense forests of "Product Support" and crossed the "Drivers & Downloads" canyon. He entered his service tag—the secret name of his array—and there, glowing in the blue light of the UI, was the treasure: Host Integration Tools for Microsoft, version 5.x.
With a steady hand, he initiated the download. The progress bar crept forward like a slow-moving caravan. When it reached 100%, he unleashed the installer.
The transformation was instant. The servers and the EqualLogic array synchronized their pulses. The "Auto-Snapshot Manager" sprang to life, guarding the volumes like a digital sentinel. The "PowerShell Tools" gave Elias the power to command a thousand terabytes with a single line of code.
The red warning lights faded into a calm, steady emerald. The kingdom of Data was safe. Elias leaned back in his ergonomic throne, closed his laptop, and finally—for the first time in three days—went to get a cup of coffee.
Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are widely praised by administrators for transforming complex SAN management into a streamlined, application-consistent experience. While the software provides significant value by automating multipathing and data protection, current reviews often highlight a frustrating download process and aging operating system support. Core Functionality and Benefits
The HIT kit serves as a bridge between the physical storage array and host servers, offering several critical features: Multipath I/O (MPIO) Optimization:
One of its most lauded features is the ability to automatically manage and load-balance iSCSI traffic across multiple network paths, which is far more efficient than manual Windows or VMware configurations. Auto-Snapshot Manager (ASM):
Reviewers frequently cite this as a "game changer" for data protection. It allows for application-consistent snapshots—meaning databases like SQL Server SharePoint
are quiesced during the snapshot process to ensure data integrity during a restore. Simplified Management: Tools like the Remote Setup Wizard (RSW) PowerShell
integration allow administrators to initialize and manage arrays directly from their primary server environment rather than jumping between different management consoles. The "Download" Experience: A Common Pain Point
A major recurring theme in user reviews is the difficulty of obtaining the software. Restricted Access:
Unlike many modern storage vendors, Dell restricts HIT kit downloads to customers with active ProSupport
agreements. Users without an active contract often find themselves "locked out" of tools they previously used. Portal Navigation: The download requires logging into the Dell EqualLogic Support Portal
, navigating to the downloads section, and specifically searching for the version compatible with your array firmware (e.g., v5.5.0 for the latest PS Series firmware). Platform Specifics and Reviews Key Strengths Common Criticisms Microsoft Edition (HIT/ME)
Seamless integration with VSS; robust PowerShell support; easy MPIO setup.
Lagging support for newer OS versions; for example, version 5.3 famously lacked Windows Server 2019 support for an extended period. VMware Edition (HIT/VE)
High-level vCenter integration; excellent scale-out performance in virtualized environments.
Some older components like the standalone ASM/VE application were described as "clunky" compared to integrated plugins. Linux Edition (HIT/LE)
Improved distribution support (CentOS/RHEL) and simplified installer in later versions.
Historically more complex to configure than its Windows counterpart. Final Verdict Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v5.5.0
Microsoft) integrates with Microsoft ISCSI initiator and provides seamless dynamically managed OEM multipath (MPIO).
Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools: Enhancing Storage Performance and Management
Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) is a suite of software tools designed to enhance the performance, manageability, and integration of Dell EqualLogic storage systems with host servers. These tools provide a comprehensive solution for optimizing storage operations, improving data availability, and streamlining management tasks.
Key Features and Benefits
The Dell EqualLogic HIT suite offers several key features and benefits, including:
Downloading Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools
To download the Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools, follow these steps:
Supported Operating Systems and Environments
The Dell EqualLogic HIT suite supports a wide range of operating systems and environments, including:
Conclusion
The Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools provide a comprehensive solution for optimizing storage performance, manageability, and integration with host servers. By downloading and installing these tools, users can improve data availability, streamline management tasks, and enhance overall storage efficiency. For more information on Dell EqualLogic HIT and to download the software, visit the Dell support website.
Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools (HIT) are host-based software suites that bridge the gap between your servers and EqualLogic PS Series storage arrays. They automate management tasks, optimize I/O performance, and enable application-consistent data protection. Core Capabilities
The HIT suite is primarily divided into platform-specific editions for Microsoft Windows, VMware, and Linux environments.
Optimized Performance (MPIO): Automatically manages multiple iSCSI network paths between the server and the storage group to balance traffic, increase bandwidth, and provide seamless failover.
Application-Consistent Protection: Uses the Auto-Snapshot Manager (ASM) to create "Smart Copies" (snapshots, clones, and replicas) that are aware of the application state, ensuring data integrity for databases and file systems.
Simplified Management: Tools like the Remote Setup Wizard (RSW) automate the discovery and initialization of new arrays, while PowerShell Tools allow for extensive scripting and automation. Edition-Specific Features Dell EqualLogic Host Integration Tools for Microsoft v4.9.0
Once you have successfully completed the Dell Equallogic Host Integration Tools download, follow this procedure:
Since Dell discontinued Equallogic, you should plan a migration. HIT versions will not get new features or security updates. However, known stable versions (4.8.x for Windows 2016, 4.11.x for 2019) will continue to work indefinitely on static infrastructure. Do not upgrade your OS to a newer major version (e.g., 2019 to 2025) without validating HIT compatibility first.
Many administrators make the mistake of using only the built-in iSCSI initiator in Windows Server or Linux. While that works, you are missing out on critical functionality:
