Figure 2

Application

Backup

Servers

SAN

 

Data

Application Traffic

 

Backup

Tape Drives

 

Dedicated to

Clients

Application

Servers

 

Ethernet

Network

 

 

 

LAN-Free Backup

Backup

Leveraging Shared

Server

Storage Capability

Server-Less Backup

Server-less (or server-free) backup involved the task of moving backup data from a disk to a tape without the data traversing the application server itself. In server-less backup, a snapshot of the data to be backed up is taken with minimal or no disruption to applications on the server. The snapshot of the data is then moved intelligently from disk to tape without going through the server. This process alleviates additional CPU load on the application server as it is not in the backup path. The mechanism used to move data directly between disk and tape is the SCSI extended copy command. The component that performs the extended copy SCSI commands can be located in the SAN fabric or server software. Current implementations of server-less backup, such as Legato Celestra Power and Veritas NetBackup, manage the whole process via the backup server. A typical server-less backup scenario is depicted in the figure below. Most customers currently prefer to deploy separate SANs for backup due to a concern for segregated domains. Hence they may not deploy this solution as the disk subsystem and tape drive must coexist on the same SAN.

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Cisco Systems MDS 9000 manual Server-Less Backup

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.