Dynamic I/O Port Protocol Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storage networks face inefficiencies due to the need for multiple I/O ports to handle different communication protocols, such as FC, Ethernet, and FCoE, requiring additional hardware and maintenance to support distinct protocols.
Innovation Solution
The dynamic reconfiguration of I/O ports within storage network devices to adapt to different communication protocols based on observed traffic data, managed by a remote management processing resource, allowing for automatic or administrator-initiated changes to optimize protocol usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple I/O ports are used to handle different communication protocols (FC, Ethernet, FCoE), then protocol compatibility is improved, but device complexity and hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal I/O port that can dynamically adapt to handle multiple communication protocols (FC, Ethernet, FCoE, iSCSI) through software configuration rather than requiring separate dedicated ports for each protocol. This multi-functional approach allows a single physical port to serve multiple protocol functions, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining protocol compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs dynamic protocol adaptation where the I/O port's communication protocol can be changed in real-time based on traffic data observations and management resource decisions. The port transitions between different protocol modes dynamically, allowing the system to optimize protocol usage patterns and reduce the need for multiple static ports
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple I/O ports are used to support distinct protocols, then protocol support is improved, but hardware requirements and maintenance burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single I/O port is designed to universally support multiple communication protocols through software-based protocol adaptation layers. This eliminates the need for separate physical ports for FC, Ethernet, and FCoE protocols, directly reducing hardware requirements while maintaining comprehensive protocol support
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functionality of multiple protocol-specific ports into a single unified I/O port. By combining FC, Ethernet, and FCoE capabilities into one physical interface that can be software-configured, the system reduces the total quantity of hardware components needed
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple I/O ports are used for different protocols, then protocol diversity is improved, but resource utilization efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically monitors traffic data and adapts the I/O port's protocol configuration in real-time to match actual communication needs. This dynamic adaptation ensures that the port operates with optimal protocol selection, improving resource utilization efficiency while maintaining support for diverse protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes automated management resources that monitor traffic patterns and self-adjust the I/O port's protocol configuration without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability optimizes protocol usage and resource efficiency by automatically adapting to changing traffic demands
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods which allow for one or more input/output (I/O) ports residing on a device in a storage network environment to be reconfigured in order to communicate using different protocols are provided. Embodiments may provide for dynamic reconfiguration of an I/O port while the device including the port is deployed in the storage network. In some instances, such reconfiguration may be managed locally and/or by a remote management processing resource in the storage network. In some embodiments, reconfiguration of an I/O port to communicate in a different protocol may be implemented, either manually or automatically, based on observed traffic data.