Virtual Machine Network Restoration via Snapshot Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
When restoring a virtual machine from a snapshot, the configurations of virtual network adapters are not recorded, leading to compatibility issues with different virtual switches and networks in new environments, preventing the VM from connecting to the virtual network.
Innovation Solution
The solution involves taking snapshots that include configuration information for virtual network adapters, allowing the restoration of the virtual network used by the virtual machine, either by finding an equivalent network or constructing a similar one, ensuring the VM can connect to the hosted network in a different environment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a snapshot of a VM is recorded without virtual network adapter configurations, then the snapshot size is reduced and storage is simplified, but the restored VM cannot connect to virtual networks in a different environment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by recording the virtual network adapter configurations (such as network type, subnet mask, gateway, DNS servers) in the snapshot before the VM is restored. This allows the restored VM to automatically have the correct network settings applied, enabling it to connect to virtual networks in different environments without manual reconfiguration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a configuration file or data structure that stores network adapter settings as part of the snapshot. This intermediary component bridges the gap between the VM state and the network environment, allowing the VM to adapt to different virtual network configurations automatically during restoration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If virtual network adapter configurations are recorded in the snapshot, then the restored VM can connect to virtual networks in different environments, but the snapshot size increases and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the network configuration data from the core VM state. The network adapter configurations are stored as distinct parameters (network type, subnet mask, gateway, DNS servers) that can be independently managed and applied. This modular approach reduces the overall complexity by organizing the snapshot into manageable, independent components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating a replica of the network configuration from the source environment and storing it in the snapshot. When the VM is restored, this copied configuration is applied to the virtual network adapters, allowing the VM to function in the new environment without requiring complex real-time adaptation logic.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the VM is restored to a different host computer system with different virtual switches and networks, then VM mobility is improved, but network connectivity is lost due to configuration incompatibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the virtual network adapter configurations based on the target host's network environment. The snapshot contains the original network parameters, and during restoration, these parameters are modified to match the new virtual switch and network settings, ensuring both mobility and connectivity are maintained.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback by detecting the network environment of the target host computer system during the restoration process. Based on this feedback, the system automatically adjusts the virtual network adapter configurations to ensure compatibility with the new environment, thereby maintaining reliable network connectivity while enabling VM mobility.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system are provided for restoring a virtual machine. A snapshot of the virtual machine is taken where the snapshot includes stored configuration information regarding a hosted network used by the virtual machine. In one embodiment, the virtual machine is restored, and a hosted network that has a type similar to the hosted network for the virtual machine is found. In another embodiment, a new hosted network having a type of the hosted network for the virtual machine is created. The vNICs of the virtual machine are modified to operate with the similar or newly created hosted network. If the hosted network for the virtual machine is a custom hosted network, then a similar or new hosted network is found or constructed having the same parameters as the custom hosted network.