HP File System Extender (FSE) manual FSE architecture, FSE operations, Migration

Models: File System Extender (FSE)

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HSM file systems can be exported to be accessed via NFS protocol.

Access using CIFS protocol is enabled by a specially customized Samba package. Files that are written to or read from an HSM file system through a Samba connection are handled like all other files created or accessed locally on the HSM file system. The customized package enables Samba to notify remote CIFS clients (especially Windows Explorer on Windows platform) when a file is offline, thus preventing unnecessary recalls of offline files. For further information on Samba integration, see the FSE release notes.

Windows FSE system specific

FSE supports remote access to FSE partitions through regular CIFS protocol (Windows shares) without any further requirements.

FSE architecture

FSE takes complete control over the HSM file systems, thus maximizing their operational efficiency. Handling of the files residing on the HSM file systems is defined with different policies.

Basically, FSE copies new or modified file information from a file on an HSM file system to FSE media, releases rarely used files and makes them offline, and recalls offline files when necessary. These are the principal FSE operations, called migration, release, and recall.

Figure 2 Main operations in FSE

FSE operations

FSE main operations are migration, release, recall, and deletion. They are configured with user-defined policies. For more information on configuring policies, see ”Migration, release, recall, and deletion” on page 123. After they are configured, the policies enable automatic, unattended execution of the corresponding operations. However, these operations can also be triggered manually using the fsefile command. For details on manual triggering, see the FSE CLI reference.

Regardless of how they are invoked, the migration, recall, and deletion operations are represented and controlled in the FSE implementation by so-called FSE jobs. Using the fsejob command, an FSE administrator can display information about existing jobs or manipulate them. Example situations when such manipulation is needed are the following:

the priority of a particular recall job has to be increased, because urgently needed documents have to be recalled from FSE media, and there are currently other jobs with higher priorities running in the FSE implementation.

a library in the FSE implementation has run out of FSE media and therefore additional media need to be added to it and initialized, in order to get the media available and migration jobs running again.

For details on monitoring FSE jobs, see ”Monitoring FSE jobs” on page 157. For more information about the fsejob command, see the FSE CLI reference.

Migration

Migration is a process of copying files from the HSM file system to FSE media. If a file is not modified for a configured period of time, it passes the so-called file age check and becomes a candidate for migration (migration candidate).

Migration is done in two steps:

HP StorageWorks File System Extender Software user guide 11

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HP File System Extender (FSE) manual FSE architecture, FSE operations, Migration

File System Extender (FSE) specifications

HP File System Extender (FSE) is a sophisticated solution designed to optimize data storage management for enterprises that deal with large volumes of unstructured data. This technology addresses the challenges of data growth and the need for effective data retention strategies, enabling organizations to store and manage their information more efficiently.

One of the main features of HP FSE is its ability to intelligently migrate data between primary and secondary storage. By utilizing policies that determine when to move infrequently accessed files to lower-cost storage environments, FSE helps reduce the strain on primary storage systems and saves on costs associated with high-performance storage solutions. This tiered approach to data management ensures that organizations can access the data they need quickly while still maintaining an efficient overall storage architecture.

Another notable characteristic of HP FSE is its seamless integration with existing storage infrastructures. The solution works with a variety of storage systems, allowing organizations to utilize their current investments without the need for significant changes to their infrastructure. This interoperability is powered by advanced technologies that facilitate data migration and retrieval, ensuring a smooth transition for organizations looking to optimize their storage strategies.

Additionally, HP FSE is equipped with robust reporting and analytics capabilities. This functionality provides organizations with insights into their storage usage, helping them understand data patterns and optimize their storage environments accordingly. By having visibility into which files are accessed most frequently and which are rarely used, organizations can make informed decisions on data retention policies and storage management.

Security is paramount in data management, and HP FSE addresses this concern by implementing advanced data protection features. This includes data encryption, secure access controls, and compliance with industry regulations, ensuring that sensitive information is safeguarded throughout its lifecycle.

Overall, HP File System Extender is a comprehensive data storage solution that combines intelligent data management, seamless integration, insightful analytics, and robust security features. By leveraging these capabilities, organizations can efficiently manage their unstructured data, lower costs, and enhance operational efficiency, making it an invaluable tool in today’s data-driven landscape.