Proxy Backup of Virtual Disk Images on NAS Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data backup solutions for virtual machines often require transferring virtual disk image files through the virtualization server computer, which can decrease its operating efficiency and increase load, as they rely on the server's resources for data transfer.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilizes a network-attached storage (NAS) device to create snapshots of virtual disk image files, allowing backup software to transfer data directly from the NAS device to a backup storage device without going through the virtualization server computer, using a proxy backup server to manage the process and create mapping information for individual file access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If virtual disk image files are transferred through the virtualization server computer for backup, then backup functionality is achieved, but the server's operating efficiency decreases and load increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the data transfer function from the virtualization server by having the NAS device create snapshots and transfer backup data directly to backup storage devices, bypassing the server entirely. This removes the server from the backup data path while maintaining backup functionality, thus resolving the contradiction between achieving backup and maintaining server efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The NAS device acts as an intermediary between the virtualization server and backup storage devices. It creates snapshots of virtual disk image files and handles the backup transfer process, allowing the server to maintain its primary functions while backups occur independently through the NAS mediator, thereby preserving server operating efficiency.
2Productivity
If snapshots are created on NAS device for backup, then server load is reduced, but additional devices and complexity are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The NAS device performs multiple functions: storing virtual disk image files, creating snapshots, and transferring backup data. By making the NAS device multi-functional, the patent reduces the need for additional dedicated backup hardware, thereby managing system complexity while maintaining improved server efficiency.
3Reliability
If entire virtual disk image files are transferred for backup, then complete backup is achieved, but transfer time and network bandwidth are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by having the NAS device create snapshots that capture only the necessary state of virtual disk image files at a given moment, rather than transferring entire files repeatedly. This reduces backup transfer time and network bandwidth usage while maintaining backup completeness through snapshot technology.
Solution Approach 2:
The NAS device creates snapshots in advance before backup transfer, preparing the data in a ready-to-transfer state. This preliminary action allows for more efficient backup operations by having data pre-organized and staged, reducing the actual transfer time required while ensuring complete backup coverage.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for backing up a virtual machine executing on a virtualization server computer are described. A snapshot of a virtual disk image file of the virtual machine may be created on a network-attached storage (NAS) device coupled to the virtualization server computer. The snapshot may be used to backup the virtual disk image file from the NAS device to a backup storage device without transferring the virtual disk image file through the virtualization server computer. Mapping information usable to access the plurality of files stored in the virtual disk image file on an individual basis may be created and stored together with the backup copy of the virtual disk image file on the backup storage device.