Heterogeneous Storage Data Replication via Protocol Mediation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data replication technologies face challenges in enabling seamless communication and data transfer between heterogeneous storage systems, which are developed by different manufacturers or run different replication software and file layouts, limiting cross-platform data replication capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A defined protocol with specific message sets allows source and destination storage systems to communicate and negotiate for data replication, using snapshot-based methods like mirroring and periodic backup, even across systems with different file systems or layouts, by associating protocol messages with corresponding requests and implementing locks to manage snapshot persistence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If data replication is performed between heterogeneous storage systems with different file systems or layouts, then cross-platform data replication capability is improved, but communication and negotiation complexity between systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a standardized protocol as an intermediary layer between heterogeneous storage systems. This protocol defines common message types and formats that enable communication between systems with different file systems and layouts, acting as a mediator that translates between diverse system interfaces without requiring direct compatibility between the storage systems themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The protocol design implements universality by creating a multi-functional message framework that can handle various replication scenarios (full replication, incremental replication, mirroring) across different storage system types. The same protocol messages and formats serve multiple purposes across heterogeneous platforms, reducing the need for system-specific communication logic.
2Productivity
If snapshot-based data replication is implemented to enable efficient data transfer, then data replication efficiency is improved, but management complexity of snapshot persistence increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol establishes preliminary actions for snapshot management by defining standardized message sequences for creating, locking, and releasing snapshots before data replication begins. These pre-defined protocols for snapshot persistence management automate the complex coordination required between source and destination systems, reducing the burden on system administrators while maintaining efficient replication.
3Ease of operation
If standardized protocol messaging is used to enable communication between heterogeneous systems, then ease of operation is improved, but protocol implementation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol is segmented into distinct, well-defined message types and states, each handling a specific aspect of the replication process. This segmentation allows implementation to be broken down into manageable components, where each message type and state transition can be implemented and tested independently, reducing overall implementation complexity despite the comprehensive nature of the protocol.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for enabling data replication is described. A set of protocol messages can be associated with a set of corresponding set of requests. The associated set of protocol messages can be provided to each of a source storage system and a destination storage system. The source storage system and the destination storage system can be heterogeneous storage systems that implement different types of file systems or file layouts. The source storage system and the destination storage system are enabled to perform a data replication process, in which at least a set of data is to be replicated from the source storage system to the destination storage system, using at least a protocol message from the associated set of protocol messages. The protocol message can correspond to a request for a list of snapshots stored at the source storage system.