Application Trace Session Isolation via Server Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
In complex computer systems, performing a trace of a computer application is challenging due to interference with other operations, especially in productive systems where multiple users and operations share data, leading to overlapping and interfering traces that result in useless results.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that establish a server session and a trace session connected to it, enabling performance tracing with parameters in the URL to separate trace data collection from other operations, using a unique HTTP session and correlator objects to distinguish and correlate trace data without affecting other users' activities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a trace operation is performed on a productive computer system, then diagnostic information can be obtained, but the trace may interfere with other concurrent operations and produce mixed/useless results
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the computer system operations into distinct trace sessions and regular operation sessions. Each session is assigned a unique session identifier, allowing the trace function to operate independently without interfering with other concurrent operations. The trace data is collected and correlated specifically within each session context, ensuring accurate diagnostic information while maintaining system productivity.
2Quantity of substance
If multiple traces are performed simultaneously by multiple users, then system monitoring coverage is improved, but trace data becomes mixed and difficult to distinguish
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where session identifiers are passed through the entire trace data collection and processing pipeline. Each trace operation receives feedback about its session context, and this information is embedded in the trace data records. This allows multiple concurrent traces to be performed simultaneously while maintaining clear distinction between different users' trace data through the correlated session identifiers.
3Reliability
If trace operations are limited to avoid interference, then trace accuracy is maintained, but system monitoring capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal session management framework that serves multiple functions: it enables accurate single-user traces, supports multiple concurrent user traces, and maintains diagnostic reliability across all scenarios. The session identifier mechanism is a universal solution that works for any trace operation regardless of user or timing, eliminating the need to limit trace operations while preserving accuracy.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for performing a computer application trace without interference with other operations. An embodiment of a method includes establishing a server session for a computer application, where the computer application is operating on a computer system. A trace session is established on the computer system, the trace session being connected with the server session. A performance trace of the computer application under the trace session is enabled, and a set of trace data for the performance trace is collected, where the set of trace data to correlated with the server session.