Automated Database Discovery via Backup Agent

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Solution Overview

Problem

Manual detection and registration of databases in backup systems are error-prone and inefficient, especially in large and complex data management environments, where rapid data growth and complexity require reliable backup and recovery solutions.

Innovation Solution

A networked computing system with a backup node cluster that automatically discovers undiscovered databases by installing a backup agent, registering the host, and triggering a discovery process to receive metadata, enabling communication with the discovered database.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If manual detection and registration of databases is performed, then the backup system can identify databases for protection, but the process is error-prone and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccuracy of database detectionVSAvoidefficiency of database registration

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The backup agent automatically performs database discovery and registration by querying the host database node cluster itself. The system uses automated queries to the database management system to identify databases, their metadata, and locations without requiring manual intervention, thereby eliminating human error and improving both reliability and efficiency

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The manual mechanical process of database detection and registration is replaced with an automated electronic discovery process. The backup agent uses electronic queries and automated scanning mechanisms to detect databases, substituting the manual operational approach with an automated computational system that improves accuracy and speed

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If automated database discovery is implemented, then efficiency and accuracy improve, but system complexity increases due to additional components

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of discovery processVSAvoidcomplexity of backup system architecture

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

A backup agent is introduced as an intermediary component between the backup node cluster and the host database node cluster. This agent simplifies the overall system architecture by consolidating the discovery and registration functions in a single intermediary entity that communicates with both sides, rather than requiring complex direct integration between all components

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The backup agent is designed as a multi-functional component that performs multiple tasks: it discovers databases, collects metadata, registers databases with the backup service, and manages communication between the backup and host systems. This consolidation of multiple functions into a single component reduces overall system complexity while maintaining high automation capabilities

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS11561994B2Automated discovery of databases

Publication Date: 2023.01.24 RUBRIK INC

AI summary

In some examples, a networked computing system comprises a backup node cluster of a backup service in communication with a host database node cluster of a host, a host database at least initially undiscovered by the backup node cluster, one or more processors coupled with memory storing instructions that, when executed, perform operations comprising at least installing a backup agent on at least one node of the host database node cluster, registering the host at the backup service, based on the host registration, triggering a host database discovery process to discover the undiscovered database automatically, the discovery process including a discovery call, in response to the discovery call, receiving metadata relating to the discovered database, and communicating with the discovered database.