Customized I/O Fencing Framework for Cluster Data Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for preventing data corruption in computer system clusters, such as those involving SCSI-3 persistent reservation commands, require specialized hardware and may not offer sufficient flexibility to handle various cluster partition conditions effectively.
Innovation Solution
A generalized I/O fencing framework that allows for the selection and use of multiple scalable, flexible, and robust I/O fencing techniques, utilizing a coordinator resource to detect cluster partitioning and remove nodes from the cluster to prevent data corruption, employing various fence mechanisms like SCSI-2 compliant devices, remote power distribution units, and SAN zoning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If SCSI-3 persistent reservation commands are used for fencing, then data corruption prevention is achieved, but hardware specialization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal fencing framework that supports multiple fencing mechanisms (SCSI-2 reservation, SCSI-3 persistent reservation, remote power distribution, SAN zoning) within a single system. The framework allows different fencing techniques to be selected and configured based on specific hardware capabilities and requirements, making the system adaptable to various hardware environments while maintaining data corruption prevention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of fencing mechanism selection from fixed (SCSI-3 only) to variable, allowing the system to choose from multiple fencing techniques based on coordinator resource availability and cluster configuration. This enables the system to adapt to different hardware scenarios while achieving the same goal of preventing data corruption.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple I/O fencing techniques are supported, then flexibility and robustness improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the fencing system into distinct modular components: coordinator resources, fence mechanisms, and a management framework. Each fencing technique (SCSI-2, SCSI-3, remote power, SAN zoning) is implemented as a separate module that can be independently configured and managed. This segmentation reduces complexity by organizing multiple fencing techniques into structured, manageable units with clear interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary framework layer that mediates between the cluster nodes and various fencing mechanisms. This framework provides a unified interface for selecting and managing different fencing techniques, abstracting the complexity from the core cluster operations while enabling flexible configuration of multiple fencing approaches.
3Measurement precision
If coordinator resources are used for detecting partitioning, then cluster partition detection accuracy improves, but resource contention may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent establishes coordinator resources and fencing mechanisms in advance, before cluster partition events occur. Nodes register their fencing capabilities and coordinator resources beforehand, so that when a partition event occurs, the system can immediately activate the appropriate fencing mechanism without resource contention or configuration delays.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, apparatus and software can implement a flexible I/O fence mechanism framework allowing clustered computer systems to conveniently use one or more I/O fencing techniques. Various different fencing techniques can be used, and fencing mechanism can be customized.