Logical Disk Space Cause Identification via Software Activity Linking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current storage monitoring systems lack the ability to accurately identify the cause of low disk space issues, leading to inefficient and resource-intensive processes for resolving storage problems.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a computer processor to identify software activities linked to a file system, define objects associated with these activities, and determine the impact on disk space, allowing for automatic recognition and remediation of low disk space causes by establishing logical links between software activities and file system objects.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional storage monitoring systems are used to detect low disk space, then disk space can be monitored, but the ability to accurately identify the specific cause of low disk space is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage system into distinct components: software activities, file system operations, and disk space metrics. By breaking down the monitoring system into these modular segments that can be independently analyzed and correlated, the system achieves precise cause identification without requiring complete system redesign. Each segment can be monitored separately and then integrated to provide comprehensive cause analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces file system operations as an intermediary layer between software activities and disk space consumption. This intermediary enables the system to trace disk space usage back to specific software activities by analyzing the file system operations they perform, thereby identifying the root cause of low disk space without directly monitoring all software processes.
2Productivity
If traditional storage monitoring systems are used, then disk space can be monitored, but the resolution process becomes complicated and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary analysis by establishing relationships between software activities, file system operations, and disk space metrics before storage issues occur. This pre-established knowledge base enables rapid identification of cause-and-effect relationships when low disk space conditions arise, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual investigation and accelerating the resolution process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors disk space metrics and automatically traces them back to originating software activities through file system operations. When low disk space is detected, the system provides immediate feedback identifying the specific software activity causing the issue, enabling rapid corrective action without manual intervention.
3Measurement precision
If traditional storage monitoring systems are used, then disk space can be monitored, but accurate cause identification requires large amounts of resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and monitors only the specific file system operations that are directly relevant to disk space consumption, rather than analyzing all software activities comprehensively. By selecting and focusing on the critical subset of operations that actually impact storage, the system achieves accurate cause identification with significantly reduced computational resources compared to monitoring entire software processes.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for determining a cause for low disk space with respect to a logical disk is provided. The method includes identifying software activities associated with a computing system linked to a file system comprised by a disk storage device. Representations for the software activities are identified with respect to the file system and associated objects are defined. The objects impact available free space on a logical disk of the disk storage device and each software activity is linked with an associated object. An amount of disk space of the logical disk occupied by each object is determined. An impact of each object is analyzed with respect to an amount of available free disk space and a specific cause(s) for the file system exceeding the available free space is determined.