Continuous Backup Snapshots on Deduplicated Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data protection systems require system shutdown during backups, limit recovery points in time, and have lengthy data recovery processes, especially when using periodic backups rather than continuous replication.
Innovation Solution
Implementing continuous data replication on deduplicated storage systems that create and maintain backup snapshots using journaling processes, allowing for point-in-time recovery and efficient data protection by streaming IOs and synthesizing snapshots from multiple data protection appliances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If periodic backup is used, then backup cost is reduced, but recovery time increases and point-in-time granularity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements continuous data replication where backup data is continuously updated from the production storage system rather than using periodic backups. This continuous replication process maintains an up-to-date backup copy that can be recovered immediately when needed, eliminating both the cost inefficiency of frequent periodic backups and the time loss associated with restoring from older backup points.
2Measurement precision
If continuous data replication is implemented, then point-in-time recovery granularity is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copied backup version of the production storage system data that can be independently maintained and recovered. This copying approach allows the backup system to achieve fine-grained point-in-time recovery without requiring complex interventions in the production system, as the backup copy independently tracks and stores historical data states.
3Reliability
If backup operations are performed, then data protection is improved, but system availability deteriorates due to required shutdowns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary data replication by continuously maintaining a backup copy of the production data before any potential disaster or data loss event occurs. This preliminary backup ensures that when data protection is needed, the system can immediately restore from the pre-prepared backup without requiring shutdowns or interruptions to the production system operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for maintaining granular backups is discussed. Backup windows may be defined, and policies may be associated with those windows. Journal and backup files may be retained or deleted in accordance with those policies.