Storage Array Latency Analysis via Component Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current approaches to measuring storage array latency are inadequate as they cannot distinguish between internal and external sources of latency, making it difficult to identify performance bottlenecks and implement effective remediation actions.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves analyzing input/output (IO) workloads to determine latency factors, identifying external and internal contributors to latency, and performing remediation actions based on the identified sources of latency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If storage array latency is measured using conventional approaches, then a general latency value is obtained, but the inability to distinguish between internal and external sources prevents effective performance optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage array into multiple distinct components (cache, controllers, I/O paths, storage devices) and measures latency for each component separately. This segmentation enables identification of which specific component contributes most to overall latency, transforming a single undifferentiated measurement into multiple targeted measurements that pinpoint performance bottlenecks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary measurement mechanisms including timestamping facilities at component boundaries, message passing interfaces between components, and a centralized measurement system that aggregates data from various components. These intermediaries enable precise tracking of data as it traverses through different storage array components without significantly impacting performance.
2Productivity
If storage array latency is measured without component-level analysis, then measurement simplicity is maintained, but the inability to identify specific latency sources prevents targeted remediation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring timestamping facilities at key measurement points throughout the storage array architecture, establishing message passing interfaces in advance, and pre-defining the component hierarchy before latency measurements are taken. This preparation enables rapid, automated component-level latency analysis without requiring complex real-time setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where latency measurements from each component are aggregated and analyzed to identify performance bottlenecks, then this information is fed back to guide remediation actions. The system continuously monitors component-level latency, compares it against performance targets, and provides feedback for optimizing specific components that are contributing most to overall latency.
3Reliability
If general latency measurement is used, then system simplicity is preserved, but external and internal latency factors cannot be differentiated for effective remediation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the storage array into multiple distinct components (cache, controllers, I/O paths, storage devices) and measures latency for each component separately. This segmentation enables identification of which specific component contributes most to overall latency, transforming a single undifferentiated measurement into multiple targeted measurements that pinpoint performance bottlenecks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a universal measurement framework that can measure latency across different storage array architectures and configurations through standardized interfaces. The same measurement principles and component segmentation approach work across various storage array designs, making the system multi-functional and broadly applicable while maintaining measurement reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
One or more aspects of the present disclosure relate to relate to analyzing and mitigation storage array latency. In embodiments, an input/output (IO) workload is received by a storage array. Additionally, a latency corresponding to processing one or more IO requests of the IO workload is determined. For example, a factor corresponding to a significant portion of the latency is identified. Further, a remediation action is performed based on the factor identified.