A Storwize family system is in the storage layer by default, but the layer can be changed. For example, you might want to change a Storwize V7000 to a replication layer if you want to virtualize other Storwize systems. 

Note:  Before you change the system layer, the following conditions must be met: 

GLYPH<SM590000> No host object can be configured with worldwide port names (WWPNs) from a Storwize family system. 

GLYPH<SM590000> No system partnerships can be defined. 

GLYPH<SM590000> No Storwize family system can be visible on the SAN fabric. 

The layer can be changed during normal host I/O. 

In your IBM Storwize system, use the lssystem  command to check the current system layer, as shown in Example 11-2. 

IBM_Storwize:mcr-fab2-cluster-07:superuser>lssystem id 00000100298056C2 name mcr-fab2-cluster-07 ... code_level 8.2.1.0 (build 147.4.1809270757000) ... layer  storage ... 

Note:  Consider the following rules for creating remote partnerships between the IBM SAN Volume Controller and Storwize Family systems: 

GLYPH<SM590000> An IBM SAN Volume Controller is always in the replication layer. 

GLYPH<SM590000> By default, the IBM Storwize systems are in the storage layer, but can be changed to the replication layer. 

GLYPH<SM590000> A system can form partnerships only with systems in the same layer. 

GLYPH<SM590000> Starting in V6.4, an IBM SAN Volume Controller or Storwize system in the replication layer can virtualize an IBM Storwize system in the storage layer. 

## 11.6.2 Multiple IBM Spectrum Virtualize systems replication 

Each IBM Spectrum Virtualize system can maintain up to three partner system relationships, which enables as many as four systems to be directly associated with each other. This system partnership capability enables the implementation of DR solutions. 

Note:  For more information about restrictions and limitations of native IP replication, see 11.8.2, “IP partnership limitations” on page 577. 

