Remote Data Mirroring/Data Replication

Remote Data Mirroring/Data Replication

Remote data mirroring, or remote copy, is the most commonly used mechanism for fast application and data recovery. This inherently implies that a mirrored volume within a disk subsystem is created to provide protection. The main volume being used by the application is considered the primary and the mirrored volume is considered as the secondary. The two main remote copy technologies that are implemented include:

•Host-based software for remote replication

•Storage controller-based hardware and ﬁrmware for remote replication

The most commonly known remote copy facilities available today include EMC’s Symmetrix RemoteData Facility (SRDF). IBM eXtended Remote Copy (XRC), IBM’s Peer-to-Peer Remote Copy (PPRC), HDS’s TrueCopy, Compaq’s Data Replication Manager (DRM), and Veritas Volume Replicator (VVR).

Both IBM XRC and Veritas VVR solutions are host based, software-assisted data mirroring facilities while PPRC, SRDF, TrueCopy, and DRM are hardware controller-based implementations of remote copy. It’s important to point out that Veritas (VVR) provides remote data mirroring over an IP network instead of Fibre Channel or ESCON (Enterprise Serial CONnection).

Cisco Products and Solutions for Disaster Recovery

As data availability becomes a key differentiator for enterprises, an increasing amount of resources are being spent in ensuring continuous operations. As explained above, dedicated networks are being provisioned to guarantee performance metrics as well as security for backup applications. Intelligent storage networks provide a new dimension to backup and recovery. In addition, remote data replication solutions offer higher degrees of availability and can be scaled to meet the requirements of the enterprise. Cisco Systems delivers state-of-the-art technology helping enterprises build end-to-end backup and recovery solutions along with disaster recovery solutions in a more scalable, secure and cost-effective fashion.

Figure 4

The Cisco MDS 9000 Family of Multilayer Directors and Fabric Switches. From left to right: MDS 9506 Director, MDS 9513 Director, MDS 9509 Director, and the MDS 9216 Fabric Switch

The Cisco MDS 9000 Family of Multilayer Directors and Fabric Switches targets enterprise and service provider storage network environments and delivers higher port density, high switching bandwidth, high performance, multiprotocol and greater reliability. The MDS 9000 Family products also targets heterogeneous storage area networks where the overall storage environment consists of multiple vendors’ products. In those environments, the Cisco MDS 9000 Family products can serve as a centralized system to provide interconnection and advanced services.

Cisco Systems, Inc.

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MDS 9000 specifications

Cisco Systems MDS 9000 series is a line of storage networking switches designed to address the unique demands of enterprise-level data centers. These switches provide high-performance solutions for connecting various storage devices, including traditional disk arrays, solid-state drives, and tape libraries. The MDS 9000 series is built for scalability, high availability, and advanced security, making it an ideal choice for organizations looking to optimize their storage infrastructure.

One of the standout features of the MDS 9000 series is its support for Fibre Channel and FICON protocols, which enable seamless integration with various storage technologies. This versatility is crucial for organizations that may be using a mix of applications and storage performance requirements. The switches support multiple speeds, including 1G, 2G, 4G, 8G, and even 16G Fibre Channel rates, ensuring that they can adapt to evolving storage needs.

The MDS 9000 is known for its advanced features in terms of management and automation. Cisco provides intelligent automation capabilities to enhance operational efficiency. Features like Flow Vision and intelligent network services allow for deep visibility into storage environments, enabling administrators to monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and optimize resource allocation effectively. This level of visibility helps organizations to mitigate risks and ensure data availability.

Security is another paramount consideration for the MDS 9000 series. The switches are equipped with a range of security features, including role-based access controls, encryption technologies, and zoning options. These capabilities help safeguard sensitive data and ensure compliance with industry regulations, making the MDS 9000 a trusted choice for enterprises dealing with critical data.

The architecture of the MDS 9000 series is designed for high availability and resiliency. With redundant power supplies and cooling systems, these switches minimize downtime and ensure continuous operation. Additionally, they offer advanced features like non-disruptive software upgrades, which eliminate the need for scheduled outages during firmware updates.

In summary, the Cisco Systems MDS 9000 series offers a robust set of features tailored for enterprise storage networking. Its support for various protocols, intelligent management capabilities, and high availability characteristics make it a preferred choice for organizations seeking to optimize their storage infrastructure for both current and future needs. By investing in the MDS 9000 series, businesses can enhance their operational efficiency, ensure data security, and maintain a competitive edge in today's data-driven landscape.