Web-Based Data Backup System Using Snapshot Copy-On-Write
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional file backup and storage systems are time-consuming, require users to be offline, and are often inaccessible when the primary computer is damaged or unavailable, especially in multi-user environments, and lack compatibility across different computer types and operating systems, leading to data loss and management challenges.
Innovation Solution
A web-based system that allows users to select and copy data between computers using a conventional web browser, with a secure, redundant system computer for storage and retrieval, enabling access from any internet-connected device, including mobile devices, and providing features like appointment reminders and secure data transfer without the need for additional software on user computers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional file backup systems copy all files including system files, then complete data backup is achieved, but the backup process becomes time-consuming and is interrupted when system files are in use
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by creating a snapshot of the file system state before backup begins. This snapshot captures all files including those currently in use, allowing the backup process to proceed without waiting for system files to be released, thus preventing interruptions and reducing total backup time while maintaining completeness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copy-on-write technology to create a virtual copy of the file system at a specific point in time. This virtual copy allows the backup process to read from the snapshot without interfering with ongoing system operations, enabling continuous backup without interruptions while ensuring data integrity
2Ease of operation
If remote access software is installed on both computers, then data can be accessed remotely, but the system becomes complex and requires specific computer states to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the backup and remote access functionality from the user's computer by storing all backup data and access control mechanisms on the service provider's server. Users only need a web browser to access their data remotely, eliminating the need to install and configure complex remote access software on both ends while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The service provider's server acts as an intermediary between the user's computer and any remote access device. All data access requests are routed through this intermediary, which handles authentication and data delivery without requiring direct connections or specialized software on the user's computer, thus simplifying the system while enabling remote access
3Reliability
If data is stored only on the local computer, then fast access is achieved, but data is lost when the computer is damaged or crashes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges local storage with remote cloud storage by automatically synchronizing data to the service provider's server. This creates a unified storage system where data exists in both locations, providing fast local access while ensuring data safety through redundant remote storage, thus improving reliability without significantly increasing perceived device complexity for the user
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage system including a virtual server on a network managing a plurality of user accounts, each user account including one or more files; the virtual server adapted to verify user access information for a particular user account; the virtual server transferring over the network information relating to files stored on the virtual server in the particular user account to a verified user on a user computer; the virtual server further adapted to transfer files associated with the particular user account to and from the user computer.