File System Filter Driver for Automatic Generational Backup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Computer users face challenges in backing up their data due to the burden of initiating backups, managing multiple versions, and risking data loss or corruption, leading to infrequent backups.
Innovation Solution
A system and method using a file system filter driver coupled with a policy engine and storage aggregator to automatically create and manage backup copies of files in persistent storage, allowing for automatic backup without user intervention, using embedded or removable nonvolatile memory, and providing a recovery interface for users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual backup processes are used, then users can control backup timing and location, but users face burden of initiating backups, managing multiple versions, and risking data loss
Solution Approach 1:
The file system automatically performs backup operations without user intervention. The system self-manages the backup process by monitoring file system events, creating backup copies, and managing storage locations autonomously, eliminating the need for users to manually initiate or manage backups.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates backup copies proactively before potential data loss occurs. By implementing automatic backup mechanisms that operate continuously in the background, the system ensures backup copies are available before users need them, preventing data loss scenarios.
2Reliability
If backup copies are stored on the same media as original data, then storage space is optimized, but risk of data loss increases if media becomes damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments backup storage from original data storage by utilizing different storage locations. Backup copies are stored in separate file system locations or on different physical media, ensuring that original data and backup copies are spatially separated to protect against media failure.
Solution Approach 2:
The file system acts as an intermediary layer that manages both original data and backup copies. It implements a backup file system that sits between the application and physical storage media, enabling automatic creation and management of backup copies in separate locations without requiring direct user intervention.
3Ease of operation
If automatic backup is implemented, then user burden is reduced, but system complexity increases with filter drivers and policy engines
Solution Approach 1:
The backup file system implements multi-functionality by combining backup creation, storage management, and recovery capabilities within a single integrated system. The file system filter driver provides universal backup functionality across different file types and storage locations, reducing the need for separate backup software or tools.
4Reliability
If multiple backup versions are managed manually, then data recovery options are preserved, but users risk overwriting valid backups with corrupted data
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms that monitor backup operations and track the status of backup copies. By providing feedback on backup success, storage capacity, and system events, the system automatically adjusts backup behavior to maintain version integrity without requiring users to manually manage backup versions.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved system and method for using a file system to automatically backup a file in persistent storage is provided. A storage aggregator may organize nonvolatile memory for use in aggregate to store backup copies of a file. A file system filter driver may receive a request from an application for storing a file and may access a policy to determining whether to create a backup copy of the file and what type of backup to apply to the file. A generational file handler may create and manage a set of generational files as backup copies of a particular application file. And a recovery user interface may be provided to retrieve one or more backup copies, such as the set of generational files, for inspection by a user to recover whatever copy of the file may be desired by the user.