Virtual Array Spanning via Switch Fabric Zoning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for partitioning storage arrays into virtual arrays are complex and expensive, operating only at the storage array level, and lack a centralized mechanism for array partitioning and data migration.
Innovation Solution
A storage network architecture that assigns logical units of storage across multiple arrays, using unique virtual port identifiers to create virtual arrays spanning multiple physical storage arrays, allowing centralized partitioning and data migration through a switch fabric.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If virtual arrays are partitioned at the storage array level using current methods, then storage partitioning and security isolation are achieved, but system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a switch fabric as an intermediary component between storage arrays and hosts. The switch fabric implements virtual array partitioning and security isolation through virtual port identifiers (VPIDs) and zoning mechanisms, eliminating the need for complex software-based virtualization within each storage array. This intermediary approach centralizes the partitioning function, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the storage network into virtual arrays by assigning unique virtual port identifiers to different logical unit groups. Each virtual array is independently addressable through the switch fabric, allowing multiple virtual arrays to coexist on the same physical infrastructure without requiring complex software partitioning at the array level.
2Reliability
If storage arrays are partitioned into separate virtual arrays, then data security and exclusive access are ensured, but data migration between arrays becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The switch fabric provides universal access control and data routing capabilities that work across all virtual arrays. Through zoning configurations and virtual port identifier mappings, the same switch infrastructure enables both security isolation within virtual arrays and flexible data migration between them, eliminating the trade-off between security and adaptability.
3Productivity
If multiple hosts access the same storage array, then resource utilization improves, but security risks and data corruption potential increase
Solution Approach 1:
The switch fabric acts as a mediating layer that enables multiple hosts to access storage resources simultaneously while enforcing security policies. Through virtual port identifier-based zoning, the switch fabric ensures that each host can only access authorized virtual arrays and logical units, maintaining data integrity and security while maximizing resource utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
Described are a storage network and method of presenting a virtual array in the storage network. The storage network includes a first storage array and a second storage array. At least one of the first and second storage arrays has one or more logical units of storage assigned to a virtual array that spans the first and second storage arrays. In addition, at least one of the first and second storage arrays has one or more physical ports coupled to the virtual array. The virtual array is assigned a unique virtual port identifier (ID) for each physical port coupled to the virtual array. A host coupled to a switch can communicate with the virtual array using a virtual port ID assigned to the virtual array.