Data Domain: Troubleshooting System Not Responding | Unavailable | Offline

Summary: This article outlines a step-by-step process to determine whether a Data Domain system is unresponsive due to internal system faults or external connectivity issues.

This article applies to This article does not apply to This article is not tied to any specific product. Not all product versions are identified in this article.

Instructions

Symptoms

  • Data Domain system does not respond to commands or network requests
  • Backup operations fail or stall
  • System appears to be offline, unavailable or hung

Applies to:

  • All Data Domain Models
  • All Software Releases

Possible Causes:

Unresponsiveness may result from one or more of the following:

    • Incorrect DNS configuration
    • Network connectivity failure or intermittent issues
    • Faulty or disconnected network/SAS cables
    • Duplicate IP addresses on the network
    • Excessive stream count exceeding performance limits
    • CPU saturation
    • Improper SAS topology (for systems with external shelves)
    • Power issues - such as, system powered off
    • Host restrictions by adminaccess
    • Misconfigured virtual network settings (for DDVE systems)

Solution:

Follow these steps in order to isolate and resolve the issue:

  • Links my require customer login.
  1. Verify DNS Configuration
    Ensure that DNS entries are correct. Misconfigured DNS can interrupt connectivity and make the system appear unresponsive.

  2. Check Network Connectivity
    Confirm that the system can communicate over the network. Use ping or traceroute tools to validate.

  3. Inspect Network Cables
    Ensure that all cables are securely connected and functioning. Replace any suspect cables.

  4. Identify Duplicate IPs
    Scan the network for IP conflicts. Duplicate IPs can cause intermittent connectivity.

  5. Review Stream Count
    Check if the system is handling more streams than recommended. Reduce stream count if necessary.

  6. Monitor CPU Utilization
    Use system tools to verify CPU load. High utilization can delay or block system responses.

  7. Validate SAS Cabling
    For systems with external shelves (such as, ES40), confirm SAS cables are correctly connected and tested.

  8. Check IPMI/iDRAC Power State
    Verify that the system is powered on.

    • Point a web browser to the iDRAC IP address and login to check the system status
  9. Run adminaccess show over Serial
    If serial access is available, check for host restrictions that may block remote access.

  10. Verify DDVE Network Settings
    For virtual appliances, inspect VM network settings and gateway configuration. Re-enable the network adapter if needed.

Next Steps if Issue Persists

  • Upload a Support Bundle (SUB)
  • Open a service request with Dell Technical Support

Additional Information

 

 

 

 

Affected Products

Data Domain

Products

Data Domain
Article Properties
Article Number: 000012055
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 27 Oct 2025
Version:  6
Find answers to your questions from other Dell users
Support Services
Check if your device is covered by Support Services.