Synchronized Local Cache for Faster Network Share Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional network server setups face performance hurdles due to the inability to parallelize write requests and require constant network access for cache invalidation, leading to unsatisfactory user experiences and costly hardware upgrades.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a metainformation database, virtual file system, and local cache with bidirectional synchronization, enabling offline file access and parallel write requests through predictive caching and peer-to-peer synchronization, without modifying existing infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If constant online access to network shares is required for cache invalidation, then data consistency is maintained, but network dependency increases and performance degrades
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary synchronization of file metadata to the local cache before network access is needed. The metadata database stores file information locally, allowing the system to prepare data for potential cache invalidation events without requiring constant network connectivity. This preliminary action enables offline operation while maintaining data consistency when the network becomes available.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a metadata database as an intermediary layer between the network share and the local cache. This intermediary stores file metadata locally and manages cache invalidation independently of network connectivity. The metadata database acts as a mediator that decouples the cache management system from direct network dependency, allowing cache operations to proceed offline while maintaining eventual consistency with the network share.
2Reliability
If write requests are processed sequentially to maintain data integrity, then data consistency is preserved, but writing performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments write operations into two independent parts: metadata updates and file content writes. Metadata changes are processed sequentially to maintain consistency, while file content writes can be parallelized. The metadata database tracks which files have been modified, allowing the system to manage write operations in a way that preserves data integrity while enabling parallel processing of actual file writes to multiple destinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic write handling where the system adapts write processing based on the operation type. For metadata operations, sequential processing is used to ensure consistency. For file content operations, the system dynamically enables parallel writes when multiple destinations are involved, adjusting the processing mode based on the specific write request and current system state to optimize performance while maintaining integrity.
3Productivity
If parallel reading requests are allowed, then reading performance improves, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates local copies of file metadata in the metadata database, allowing multiple reading requests to be served from the local cache simultaneously without requiring complex coordination. Each reader can independently access the copied metadata and file content locally, eliminating the need for locking mechanisms or request serialization. This copying approach enables parallel reads while keeping the system relatively simple by avoiding complex concurrency control logic.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure presents a system and method aimed at optimizing network server performance via synchronization of local cached files, elevating user experience without necessitating server, security or networking configuration alterations. The innovation employs diverse techniques to enhance the performance of network shares, whether on-premise or cloud-based, leading to expedited response times and heightened efficiency for end-users. Additionally, the system facilitates offline access to files.