Off-Host Storage Migration Detection via Path Identifier
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Solution Overview
Problem
Storage array vendors face challenges in providing seamless and non-disruptive migration of data between storage arrays, as host systems may not adequately identify or respond to such migrations.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that detect attempts to perform non-disruptive data migration by identifying new communication paths, determining if they are standby paths, and verifying if they represent a new storage array configured to appear as the existing one, allowing for management operations such as data allocation policy changes and notification of administrators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If non-disruptive data migration is implemented from existing storage array to new storage array, then data continuity is maintained, but host system cannot adequately identify or respond to the migration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a communication path identifier as an intermediary element that bridges the gap between the transparent migration process and the host system. This identifier is embedded in communication paths between the host and storage arrays, allowing the host to detect and respond to migrations without disrupting data continuity. The identifier acts as a mediator that carries migration information through the existing communication infrastructure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new communication path is created to new storage array, then migration capability is enabled, but path identification and verification complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses communication path identifiers as distinctive markers that differentiate between paths to the existing storage array and paths to the new storage array. These identifiers act like unique signatures or colors that allow the host system to easily distinguish and track different communication paths, simplifying path management despite the added migration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication path identifier is established in advance during the migration setup phase, before the actual data migration begins. This preliminary assignment of identifiers simplifies subsequent path identification and verification processes, as the host system already has the reference information needed to detect and respond to migration events.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for managing migration may include detecting an attempt to perform migration from an existing off-host storage array to a new off-host storage array by 1) identifying a new communication path that appears to a host system as a path from the host system to the existing off-host storage array, 2) determining whether the new communication path comprises a standby path that is not actively being used for communication between the host system and the existing off-host storage array, 3) determining whether the new communication path actually comprises a path to the new storage array configured to appear to the host system as though it were the existing storage array, and 4) concluding that non-disruptive data migration is being attempted. The method may also include performing a management operation with respect to the new off-host storage array. Various other methods, systems, and computer-readable media are also disclosed.