iSCSI Multipath Management via Dynamic Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multi-path management systems for storage systems have fixed paths, making them inefficient in adapting to changes in network topology and load traffic, requiring frequent and labor-intensive configuration adjustments.
Innovation Solution
An iSCSI multi-path management system with a connection module and routing module that dynamically updates and maintains routing tables based on current network topology and black/white list rules, allowing for adaptive path adjustments and efficient configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If paths are fixed once configured in the multi-path management system, then configuration stability is maintained, but adaptability to network topology changes and load traffic variations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic path selection by enabling the multi-path management system to automatically detect network topology changes and load traffic conditions, then adjust iSCSI session paths in real-time without requiring manual configuration changes. This transforms the static path configuration into a dynamic system that adapts to changing conditions automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring network topology and traffic load conditions, then using this information to make intelligent path selection decisions. The system feedback loop detects changes in network conditions and automatically adjusts paths accordingly, eliminating the need for manual configuration adjustments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual configuration adjustments are made frequently to adapt to network changes, then adaptability improves, but configuration workload and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The multi-path management system performs self-service by automatically detecting network topology changes and traffic conditions, then autonomously selecting appropriate iSCSI session paths without requiring human intervention. This self-adjusting capability eliminates manual configuration work while maintaining high adaptability to changing application scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-configures multiple potential paths and establishes iSCSI sessions in advance, so when network conditions change, it can immediately switch to pre-prepared alternative paths without waiting for manual configuration. This preliminary preparation of multiple paths enables rapid adaptation to changing conditions.
3Reliability
If multiple paths are established for load balancing and failover, then system reliability improves, but path management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of path selection, path monitoring, and path management into a single integrated multi-path management system. By combining these previously separate functions into one unified system, it maintains the reliability benefits of multiple paths while reducing the overall management complexity through consolidation.
Data Source
AI summary
An iscsi multi-path management system includes a connection module and a routing module deployed at a client. The routing module is adapted to update and maintain a routing table according to real-time updates, the routing table records legitimate paths conforming to a black/white list rule. The connection module includes a connector and a storage volume manager, the connector is adapted to search for an iscsi target that conforms to the black/white list rule at a storage end, establish an iscsi session through a legitimate path, and notify the storage volume manager to execute a mount volume operation; and the connector is further adapted to regularly recheck the established iscsi session according to an updated black/white list rule, and regularly update and acquire the iscsi target at the storage end, so as to establish the iscsi session with the newly acquired iscsi target that conforms to the updated black/white list rule.