Withdrawing Point-in-Time Snapshot Copy Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
In data replication environments, there is a challenge in withdrawing a point-in-time snapshot copy operation without negatively affecting the performance or recovery point objective (RPO) of the system, particularly when the data consistency application is creating or idle.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allow the withdrawal of a point-in-time snapshot copy operation by maintaining the withdrawal request while allowing the creation of the current consistency group and preventing the formation of a new consistency group during the withdrawal, ensuring minimal disruption and maintaining data consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a point-in-time snapshot copy operation is performed, then data protection and recovery capability are improved, but system performance and RPO may be negatively affected when withdrawal is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic state management for the data consistency application, transitioning between idle and busy states based on snapshot operations. When a snapshot is created, the application enters a busy state and remains there until the snapshot completes, dynamically controlling consistency group formation based on operational state
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enters a pending withdrawal state before actually withdrawing the snapshot. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare for withdrawal while maintaining current operations, then completes the withdrawal once the snapshot finishes, preventing performance degradation during active snapshot operations
2Loss of information
If a point-in-time snapshot copy operation is performed, then a current state of data is preserved, but withdrawal of the snapshot may cause data loss or inconsistency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms through callbacks that are triggered when snapshot operations complete. The system monitors snapshot completion status and uses this feedback to determine when to proceed with withdrawal, ensuring data consistency by only withdrawing after the snapshot has fully completed and its state is preserved
Solution Approach 2:
The system enters a pending withdrawal state before actually withdrawing the snapshot. This preliminary state allows the system to verify snapshot completion and prepare appropriate actions, ensuring that withdrawal only occurs when it will not cause data loss or inconsistency
3Reliability
If the data consistency application is prevented from forming new consistency groups during snapshot withdrawal, then data consistency is maintained, but system productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of consistency group formation based on the application's operational state. When idle, the application normally forms consistency groups. When a snapshot operation is in progress, the application enters a busy state and prevents new consistency group formation. During pending withdrawal, formation is also prevented. This dynamic approach maintains consistency only when necessary, maximizing productivity during normal operations
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method according to one embodiment includes receiving a request to withdraw a point-in-time snapshot copy operation being implemented by a data consistency application; in response to determining that the data consistency application is creating a current consistency group, maintaining the withdrawal request while allowing the creation of the current consistency group by the data consistency application; and in response to determining that the data consistency application is idle, preventing a formation of a new consistency group by the data consistency application during the withdrawal of the point-in-time snapshot copy operation.