File System Modeling via Consecutive Backup Image Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for generating accurate file system models are invasive and imprecise, as they require direct access to customer data or rely on generic assumptions, leading to suboptimal file system hardware and software design.
Innovation Solution
Analyzing backup images of the file system to detect and characterize file system events over time, using a method that compares consecutive backup images to identify incremental changes and generate a more accurate model without interfering with the operational file system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If direct access to customer data is used to generate file system models, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to access restrictions and customer uncooperativeness
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces backup images as an intermediary medium between the customer's operational file system and the analysis system. These backup images serve as a proxy that provides sufficient data for accurate file system modeling without requiring direct access to the live system, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copies of the file system (backup images) instead of the original operational system for analysis. By working with replicas rather than the source system, the invention enables precise modeling while avoiding the access restrictions and operational disruptions associated with direct system access
2Ease of operation
If generic assumptions are used to generate file system models, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates leading to suboptimal design
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the backup images to 'self-describe' the file system events through automated analysis of the backup data itself. The system extracts event information directly from the backup images without requiring external assumptions or manual input, thus achieving both ease of operation and high measurement precision simultaneously
3Measurement precision
If logger programs are installed to record file system events, then measurement precision is improved, but object-generated harmful factors worsen due to system interference and operational disruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs the data collection action in advance by using existing backup images that were created before the analysis process. This preliminary capture of data eliminates the need for intrusive logging during system operation, thus achieving accurate measurement without causing operational disruption or system interference
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a system and method for identifying file system events over time using at least two consecutive backup images for the file system. Using consecutive backup images for the file system enables the present invention to identify whether files have been created, removed or altered between backup operations, without actually interfering or interacting with the file system itself. As a result, the information gathered may be compiled to generate a more accurate file system model for the backed up file system. As a further result, the present invention is a less invasive way to gather information about file system events.