File System Filter Driver for Application De-duplication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data backup systems lack de-duplication services when used through separate applications, leading to inefficient storage and network performance issues due to redundant data transmission and the need for additional, unfamiliar interfaces for backup operators.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a file system filter driver to access de-duplication services from within applications, allowing seamless backup and restore operations using client-side de-duplication, such as EMC DD Boost, which reduces redundant data transmission and leverages familiar interfaces, thereby improving performance and user experience.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate backup program is used to provide de-duplication services, then de-duplication functionality is available, but the interface becomes unfamiliar and operationally more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines de-duplication services with the native application backup interface by installing a file system filter driver that operates transparently within the application's existing backup workflow. This merging allows de-duplication functionality to be accessed through the familiar application interface rather than requiring a separate backup program, thus resolving the contradiction between providing de-duplication capabilities and maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The file system filter driver acts as an intermediary component that sits between the native application and the file system. It intercepts backup operations initiated by the application and redirects them through de-duplication services without requiring the application itself to be modified or for users to learn a new interface. This intermediary approach enables seamless integration of de-duplication while preserving the original application's user-friendly interface.
2Productivity
If backup data is transmitted without de-duplication, then backup operations are simple, but network bandwidth consumption increases and storage efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The file system filter driver performs de-duplication processing preliminarily during the backup operation itself, before data is transmitted over the network. By identifying and eliminating duplicate data blocks in real-time as they are being backed up, the system reduces the amount of data that needs to be transmitted, thereby improving backup productivity while simultaneously reducing network bandwidth consumption and storage requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
An application on a client is presented with a target destination for a backup of data managed by the application. The target destination includes a virtual drive. Data backed up by the application to the virtual drive is received. The data is directed to a de-duplication library executing on the client, where the de-duplication library is separate from the application.