Unified View Entry for Multi-Protocol Storage Area Network Access

The patent applies universality by creating a single unified device masking and mapping structure that serves multiple transport protocols (FC, iSCSI, SAS) simultaneously. The view entry structure with host groups, target groups, and LUNs provides a common framework that adapts to different protocols without requiring separate implementation mechanisms for each protocol, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining protocol-specific flexibility through the abstract nature of the groups.

The patent introduces an intermediary layer in the form of abstract host groups and target groups that mediate between the administrator and the protocol-specific implementations. This intermediary structure allows administrators to manage device access consistently across protocols using unified group concepts, while the underlying protocol-specific optimizations are handled automatically by the system without requiring administrator intervention.

The patent merges separate protocol-specific masking and mapping structures into a single unified view entry structure. By combining host groups, target groups, and LUN assignments into one standardized format that works across FC, iSCSI, and SAS protocols, the system achieves a unified SAN view while still meeting the specific requirements of each protocol through the flexible interpretation of groups and identifiers.