Graphical Backup Maps for Network Data Module Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backup systems for large computer networks are resource-intensive and difficult to manage, as they require viewing the configurations and backup statuses of multiple machines and data modules individually, becoming unwieldy as the network size increases.
Innovation Solution
A system that generates and displays graphical maps of backup statuses, allowing for the grouping of data modules into consistency groups and enabling centralized backup and recovery operations, with a profiler to gather data, a mapper to create graphical representations, and a director to manage backup operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If individual machine configuration checking is performed, then backup status information is obtained, but management complexity and resource consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the configuration checking and backup status monitoring of multiple individual machines into a single centralized graphical map interface. Instead of checking each machine separately, the system combines all backup statuses into one unified visual representation that displays the state of multiple data modules across the network simultaneously, reducing management complexity while maintaining complete information visibility.
2Loss of information
If individual data module backup status is checked separately, then complete backup information is gathered, but the process becomes unwieldy as network size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional linear approach of checking each data module sequentially to a two-dimensional graphical map interface where multiple data modules are arranged spatially. This dimensional change allows operators to view and manage backup statuses of numerous data modules simultaneously in a visual layout, making the system scalable to large networks without increasing operational difficulty.
3Productivity
If centralized backup operations are implemented, then operational efficiency improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a graphical map as an intermediary layer between the operator and the distributed backup system. This visual interface serves as a mediator that simplifies the control of centralized backup operations by providing an intuitive overview of all data modules and their backup states, allowing efficient management without requiring the operator to directly interact with complex underlying system mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are described for generating graphical maps showing the backup degrees of data modules located across one or more client computers in a network, and directing backup and recovery operations for those data modules. According to one embodiment, the backup system sends information requests to the client computers, and receives in response the backup degrees of the data modules contained by the client computers. The backup system then generates and displays the graphical map. The backup system then can direct backup and recovery operations by sending operation requests to the client computers and updating the graphical map when necessary. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.