Dynamic Latency Management in Active-Active Storage Multi-Pathing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional MPIO drivers in storage systems do not dynamically adjust path selection based on changing latency values, leading to suboptimal IO performance due to continuous use of arrays with higher latency even when workload conditions change, resulting in inefficiencies and potential congestion.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a multi-path layer with latency management functionality that dynamically classifies paths with higher latency as standby and directs IO operations to arrays with lower latency, using MPIO drivers and a management appliance to monitor and adjust path selection based on real-time latency values.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If conventional MPIO drivers continuously use the designated local array for IO operations, then path stability is maintained, but IO performance deteriorates when the local array experiences higher latency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection by continuously monitoring latency values and automatically switching between local and remote arrays based on current performance conditions. The MPIO driver transitions from static path designation to dynamic path selection, adjusting the active path in real-time based on measured latency metrics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the MPIO driver monitors latency values from both local and remote arrays, compares these measurements, and uses this feedback information to make intelligent path selection decisions. The continuous monitoring and comparison of latency values creates a closed-loop control system that optimizes IO performance.
2Productivity
If the MPIO driver designates an array with the least latency as the local array during initial configuration, then initial IO performance is optimized, but performance deteriorates when workload conditions change and latency patterns shift
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static initial configuration to dynamic adaptive operation. The MPIO driver continuously monitors latency values and automatically reevaluates which array should be designated as local versus remote based on current conditions, allowing the system to adapt to changing workload patterns and latency characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The MPIO driver performs self-optimization by automatically monitoring its own performance metrics and making path selection decisions without external intervention. The system self-adjusts by comparing latency values and autonomously determining the optimal active path based on current system conditions.
3Measurement precision
If paths to storage systems are monitored for latency values, then path selection accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases due to continuous monitoring and message exchange
Solution Approach 1:
The MPIO driver performs multiple functions: it acts as an IO pathway manager, a latency monitoring instrument, a data communicator with the storage system, and a path selection decision-maker. By consolidating these functions into a single multi-functional component, the system achieves precise path selection without proportionally increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprises a host device that includes a multi-path input-output (MPIO) driver configured to control delivery of input-output (IO) operations from the host device to first and second storage systems over a plurality of paths through a network. The MPIO driver determines latency values for the paths to the first and second storage systems, retrieves additional information corresponding to the paths and first and second storage systems, generates a first message comprising at least portions of the latency values and additional information, and sends the first message to a multi-pathing management appliance. A second message is received from the multi-pathing management appliance, the second message being generated based on at least a portion of the first message. The MPIO driver selects one or more paths for delivery of given ones of the IO operations based at least in part on at least a portion of the second message.