Direct Backup Access via Virtual Disk LUN
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Solution Overview
Problem
Restore operations from backup data are typically time-consuming and resource-intensive, requiring manual intervention and involving the transfer of data back to the original storage array, which consumes resources and takes time.
Innovation Solution
Direct access to backup data is provided from the target backup device by using static images stored on the target device to spawn a virtual disk LUN, allowing the production host to access the data directly from the target device, eliminating the need for data transfer back to the original storage array.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If backup data is transferred back to the original storage array for restore operations, then data recovery is achieved, but the operation becomes time-consuming and resource-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism (backup target device with spawned vDisk LUN) that allows direct access to backup data without requiring transfer back to the original storage array. The backup target device acts as a mediator between the production host and backup data, enabling fast access while maintaining data integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the restore operation from the traditional path (backup target → storage array → production host) and allows direct access from the backup target device to the production host via spawned vDisk LUN. This extraction eliminates unnecessary data transfer steps and reduces restore time.
2Reliability
If backup data is transferred back to the original storage array for restore operations, then data recovery is achieved, but system resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the restore operation from the traditional path that requires data transfer through the storage array, and enables direct access from the backup target device. This extraction eliminates unnecessary resource consumption associated with data movement and processing through intermediate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup target device performs the restore operation itself by spawning a vDisk LUN that directly presents backup data to the production host. This self-service approach eliminates the need for the storage array and other intermediate systems to participate in the restore operation, reducing overall system resource consumption.
3Reliability
If manual intervention is required for restore operations, then data recovery control is maintained, but the operation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an automated intermediary mechanism (recovery service) that manages the restore operation. The recovery service automatically receives restoration requests, spawns appropriate vDisk LUNs, and manages the restore process, thereby reducing manual intervention requirements while maintaining control through automated workflows.
4Reliability
If data is transferred back to the storage array for restore, then backup data is restored, but network and system resources are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data transfer step from the restore operation by enabling direct access from the backup target device to the production host. This eliminates network traffic between the storage array and production host, and removes the associated energy consumption from the restore process.
Solution Approach 2:
The backup target device performs the restoration operation itself by presenting backup data through spawned vDisk LUNs directly to production hosts. This self-service model eliminates the need for data movement through the storage array and network infrastructure, thereby conserving network and system resources.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques to provide direct access to backup data are disclosed. An indication is received to provide access to backup data backed up previously to a target device. The backup data as stored on the target device is used to spawn on the target device a logical volume corresponding to the backup data. Access to the logical volume as stored on the target device is provided to a production host.