Backup Metadata Manager for Instant File Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data access methods in backup storage systems often require exposing entire backup copies, leading to security issues and inefficient access control, as well as lack of real-time data sharing and automatic resource management.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing a file-based backup metadata file manager to enable instant access to specific data portions by generating temporary storage devices and virtual file systems, allowing controlled access and sharing while ensuring data integrity and automatic resource destruction based on criteria.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If entire backup copies are exposed for data access, then data accessibility is improved, but security control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the backup storage system into multiple storage units, each containing specific data portions. Instead of exposing entire backup copies, the system provides selective access to individual storage units or subsets of data, thereby maintaining security control while improving data accessibility. The metadata file manager enables granular access control by managing which storage units are exposed to which applications.
2Productivity
If manual resource management is used in backup systems, then system complexity is reduced, but productivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic resource management where the metadata file manager and backup agent autonomously handle storage unit allocation, data movement, and resource lifecycle management. The system automatically destroys storage units when no longer needed, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This self-service approach significantly improves productivity while the automated nature of the system manages the complexity internally.
3Productivity
If real-time data sharing is implemented, then collaboration efficiency is improved, but data integrity control worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a metadata file manager as an intermediary layer between multiple applications and the backup storage system. This intermediary manages real-time data sharing by controlling access to storage units, ensuring that data integrity is maintained while enabling collaborative access. The metadata file manager coordinates read/write operations and manages the lifecycle of storage units, allowing multiple applications to access data simultaneously without compromising integrity.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing access to a file based backup (FBB) includes obtaining, by a FBB metadata file manager operating in a production host, a search request for file data stored in a backup storage system, in response to the search request: generating a set of search results associated with the search request, performing a first attribute analysis for a first search result to identify first storage location attributes of the first file, performing a second attribute analysis for a second search result to identify second storage location attributes of the second file, generating a FBB virtual file system in the production host using the first storage location attributes and the second storage location attributes, displaying the set of search results, and enabling access to the FBB virtual file system by the application via the set of search results.