Dynamic Journal for Seamless Replication Migration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data protection systems face challenges such as system shutdown during backups, limited recovery points, and lengthy data recovery processes, particularly when migrating between replication technologies, which requires resynchronizing large data sets, leading to extended downtime.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method for seamless migration from a preexisting replication service to a new one by configuring the new service, disabling the old service, and using punch commands and thin LUNs to create a dynamic journal that shrinks and grows on demand, allowing for efficient data synchronization without full resynchronization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional migration methods are used to switch between replication technologies, then the new replication technology can be implemented, but full resynchronization of large data sets is required causing extended downtime of several weeks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the data synchronization process by using a journal to track only changed data blocks rather than resynchronizing the entire data set. The journal divides the migration task into small incremental updates, allowing the system to migrate replication technologies without full resynchronization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary action by maintaining a journal of data changes continuously before migration is needed. This pre-captured change information is then used during migration to quickly synchronize the new replication technology without requiring full data resynchronization, thereby reducing downtime.
2Reliability
If continuous data protection is implemented using journaling, then recovery to any specified point in time is enabled, but significant amounts of journal storage volume are consumed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the journal volume dynamic rather than static. The journal automatically grows and shrinks based on actual data change activity, allowing the system to maintain continuous data protection capability while optimizing storage utilization to avoid excessive journal volume consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of journal volume from a fixed allocation to a dynamic parameter that adjusts based on actual data changes. This allows the journal to consume only the necessary storage space required for maintaining recovery capabilities, rather than pre-allocating excessive volume.
3Ease of operation
If a static journal with pre-allocated volume is used, then journal management is simplified, but the journal cannot adapt to varying storage needs causing inefficient space utilization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the journal from a static structure to a dynamic one that automatically adjusts its volume based on actual data change patterns. This dynamic journal maintains ease of operation through automated management while gaining the adaptability to efficiently utilize storage space according to varying needs.
4Quantity of substance
If tape backup drives are used for data protection, then storage cost is reduced, but system shutdown is required during backup operations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a journal as an intermediary mechanism that captures data changes in real-time without requiring system shutdown. This journal intermediary enables continuous data protection by recording changes as they occur, allowing the production system to remain operational while backup operations proceed using cost-effective storage media.
Data Source
AI summary
Traditional methods for migrating between replication technologies require stopping the old replication technology and starting with the new replication technology from scratch. Replicated data sizes can be very large (e.g., on the order of a petabyte) which can take a considerable amount of time, often several weeks, to read. During this time, replication is unavailable. Example embodiments of the present invention provide a method, apparatus and computer-program product for seamless migration from a preexisting replication service to a new replication service by configuring the new replication service, disabling the preexisting replication service enabling the new replication service. Example embodiments of the present invention also provide for querying storage to determine available replication sets, presenting a graphical user interface to a user to enable the user to select a replication set for migration and automatically performing the migration.