Storage Network SPoF Detection via Unified I/O Path Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Determining single points of failure (SPoFs) in storage networks is complex due to varying technologies and abstraction levels, requiring manual gathering of I/O path information from multiple sources and frequent reanalysis with changes in the network, which is cumbersome and often inaccessible.
Innovation Solution
A method to determine SPoFs by logging into the storage network, gathering I/O path information from data structures like zoning and masking tables, and displaying it in a user-friendly interface to identify potential single points of failure, allowing for automated or manual detection and alerting system administrators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual gathering of I/O path information from multiple sources is performed, then comprehensive SPoF detection is achieved, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple I/O path information sources (zoning tables, masking tables, discovery tables) into a unified data structure that consolidates all necessary connectivity information in one location, eliminating the need to manually gather data from separate sources and enabling automated SPoF analysis
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically discovering and storing I/O path information in data structures before SPoF analysis is needed. This pre-gathering of connectivity data enables rapid SPoF detection without requiring manual information collection at the time of analysis
2Reliability
If frequent reanalysis of I/O paths is performed to detect SPoFs, then detection accuracy is maintained, but the complexity and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically maintaining I/O path information data structures through event-driven updates. When connectivity changes occur, the system autonomously discovers and updates the relevant information without requiring external intervention or complex manual reanalysis processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs feedback mechanisms where the system monitors connectivity events and automatically updates I/O path information data structures. This continuous feedback loop ensures the information remains current without requiring frequent manual reanalysis, maintaining detection reliability while reducing operational complexity
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive I/O path information is collected from multiple sources, then complete SPoF identification is achieved, but accessibility and ease of use decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary interface that sits between the complex I/O path information data structures and the user. This interface translates comprehensive technical connectivity data into user-friendly presentations, making complete SPoF identification accessible without requiring users to navigate complex data structures directly
Data Source
AI summary
Single points of failure (SPoFs) may be determined for I/O connectivity on a storage network. I/O path information may be determined for a storage device, for example, as a result of a host system logging into the storage network, and may be updated in response to events on the storage network. From this determined I/O path information, one or more SPoFs between a storage device and an application layer may be determined if, for the I/O path information collectively, it is determined that there is only one of any of the path components between the storage device and the application layer. The I/O path information may be displayed in a manner that facilitates a user identifying that there is an SPoF on an I/O path between a storage device and an application layer of a host system. Based on the determination of an SPoF, an alert may be issued.