Introduction to EVM

EVM server software, which runs on the management appliance

EVM host agent software runs on the user’s host computer systems that are part of the EVM network.

Storage Element Manager, which runs on the management appliance

The EVM server manages the EVM network, manages EVM jobs, and provides the Web browser interface to users. The EVM server is installed on an HP OpenView Management Appliance. Another EVM component, called the EVM host agent, is installed on host computers and participates in the EVM jobs created for volume management. StorageWorks storage systems provide the storage that is used in EVM jobs.

An EVM network is often a subset of an existing Fibre Channel storage area network (SAN). The SAN consists of host computers, StorageWorks storage systems, and switches that are connected by fiber optic cabling. The Fibre Channel carries storage data transmitted between StorageWorks storage systems and host computers.

The computers in an EVM network are also connected by a Local Area Network (LAN) and communicate with each other by a TCP/IP connection. The LAN carries command and status data transmitted between network components.

The EVM network and its associated StorageWorks storage systems can be managed remotely using a Web browser. From the Web browser the user logs in to the management appliance and the EVM server and then has access to the EVM graphical user interface (GUI).

What the Management Appliance Does

EVM server software runs on the HP OpenView Management Appliance. The Management Appliance provides a centralized facility for managing and monitoring SAN elements, including storage arrays. Management Appliance software includes element managers for both HSG-based and HSV-based storage systems. The element managers allow users to manage storage through GUI interfaces, which are accessed through a Web browser.

IMPORTANT: To use EVM with HSV-based storage systems, you must separately enter (on the EVM Configuration page) the same user name and password that you entered in the OSM (Open SAN Manager) Account Login page. See the online Help/User Guide for HSV password details.

EVM networks are accessible from systems that have an Internet Explorer or Netscape Web browser (see Table 5–12 on page 5–13 for browser compatibility with host operating systems).

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Enterprise Volume Manager (Multi-OS) Network Administration Guide

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HP Enterprise Volume Manager Software manual What the Management Appliance Does

Enterprise Volume Manager Software specifications

HP Enterprise Volume Manager (EVM) Software is a robust solution designed to optimize storage management for enterprise environments. This innovative software addresses the complexities of managing data across diverse storage systems while enhancing performance, scalability, and efficiency.

One of the key features of HP EVM is its ability to centralize storage management. By providing a unified interface, it streamlines administrative tasks, enabling IT teams to manage storage resources from a single console. This centralization not only simplifies operations but also reduces the potential for human error, leading to more reliable data management.

Another significant feature is the software's powerful automation capabilities. HP EVM automates routine tasks such as data provisioning, monitoring, and reporting. This functionality empowers organizations to allocate resources efficiently, respond to changes in demand swiftly, and ensure optimal performance without extensive manual intervention. Automated alerting and reporting mechanisms provide visibility into storage utilization and performance metrics, allowing for proactive management of storage resources.

HP EVM also supports advanced storage technologies like thin provisioning and deduplication, which help maximize storage efficiency. Thin provisioning allows organizations to allocate storage on an as-needed basis, minimizing wastage and ensuring cost-effective utilization. Deduplication, on the other hand, reduces redundant data, freeing up valuable storage space and improving backup and recovery times.

Scalability is another hallmark of HP EVM. The software is designed to grow with an organization's needs, supporting a wide array of storage devices, from traditional disk systems to flash storage. This flexibility ensures that enterprises can adapt to evolving data demands and technological advancements without overhauling existing infrastructure.

Security features integrated into HP EVM are essential for protecting sensitive data. The software supports robust encryption protocols and access controls, ensuring that data remains secure during transitions and while stored across multiple locations. Compliance with industry regulations is facilitated through comprehensive logging and reporting features, enhancing an organization’s ability to maintain regulatory standards.

In conclusion, HP Enterprise Volume Manager Software is a pivotal tool for organizations seeking efficient and effective storage management. With its centralized management capabilities, automation features, support for advanced storage technologies, scalability, and strong security measures, HP EVM stands out as a vital asset that drives operational efficiency and data integrity in today's data-centric enterprises. Investing in HP EVM not only simplifies storage management but also empowers organizations to proactively meet their data challenges.