Host-Based Replication Resource Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In host-based replication environments, existing methods fail to efficiently distribute the replication workload among transfer agents, leading to inefficient use of resources and increased time and costs due to unequal agent capabilities and non-optimal allocation of tasks.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that assign weights to file system entities based on their complexity and distribute them among transfer agents using an alternating assignment function, ensuring that each agent handles tasks proportional to its capabilities, thereby optimizing resource allocation and minimizing replication time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a simplistic allocation method is used where every transfer agent replicates a single file system, then the replication task can be completed with reduced time, but it requires many hardware resources and makes inefficient use of those resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the allocation parameter from one-to-one mapping (one agent per file system) to a many-to-one mapping where multiple file systems are assigned to each transfer agent based on weighted criteria. This allows better utilization of agent capabilities while maintaining replication speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by assigning different weights to different file systems based on their specific characteristics (size, complexity, priority). This ensures that each transfer agent receives a tailored workload mix rather than uniform distribution, optimizing resource usage at the local level.
2Adaptability or versatility
If transfer agents with unequal capabilities are used, then the system can handle diverse workload requirements, but non-optimal allocation causes some agents to be overloaded while others are idle
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces capability parameters for each transfer agent (processing speed, memory capacity, I/O throughput) and uses these parameters in the weighted assignment algorithm. This allows the system to adapt to unequal agent capabilities while balancing the workload across all agents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic workload assignment where the allocation of file systems to transfer agents is adjusted based on real-time agent capability assessment and current workload status. This dynamic approach ensures optimal utilization of heterogeneous agent resources.
3Productivity
If more transfer agents are engaged to handle the replication task, then the replication can be completed faster, but the hardware and software costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the performance parameter from linear scaling (one agent per file system) to optimized scaling where a smaller number of agents can handle more file systems through intelligent weighted assignment. This reduces the quantity of agents needed while maintaining or improving replication throughput.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer program products for optimizing resource allocation in a host-based replication environment are disclosed. According to one aspect, the subject matter described herein includes a method for optimizing resource allocation in a host-based replication environment. The method includes assigning a weight to each of a multiple of file system entities to be replicated. The method also includes creating a list of available transfer agents for replicating file system entities, the list having first and second ends and the list including at least one entry representing each transfer agent. The method also includes alternating between starting from the first end of the list and moving through the list until the second end of the list is reached and starting from the second end of the list and moving through the list until the first end of the list is reached, and, while moving through the list, assigning in order of weight each of the file system entities to the transfer agent represented by the current entry in the list.