File System Catalog

The File System Catalog (FSC) is a database related to a single FSE partition. It consists of a Data Location Catalog (DLC) and a Name Space Catalog (NSC).

The Data Location Catalog contains information about location of files on the FSE media. It stores a full history of file locations.

The Name Space Catalog (NSC) contains metadata of files on an HSM file system. It only stores the latest generation metadata, which includes directory structure, standard attributes and additional platform-dependent metadata. This data enables recovery of an HSM file system. For details, see ”Recovery” on page 235.

Linux specific

For HSM file systems located on Linux FSE clients, NSC also stores ownership information of directories and files.

Windows specific

For HSM file systems located on Windows FSE clients, NSC also stores ACLs (Access Control Lists) and Alternate Data Streams for user data.

The File System Catalog location is platform-dependent.

Linux specific

File System Catalog is located in the /var/opt/fse/part/PartitionName/fsc directory. Windows specific

File System Catalog is located in the %InstallPath%\var\part\PartitionName\fsc directory.

The value of %InstallPath% depends on the choice made in the FSE installation process. It defaults to

C:\Program Files\Hewlett-Packard\FSE.

FSE media pool

An FSE partition must have at least one media pool assigned to it. An FSE media pool is configured to group media of the same type, which have the same characteristics.

Media pools are configured regarding their purpose and correspond to the specifics of FSE partition data and FSE media types, for example, a WORM or regular disk media pool. Therefore, one media pool cannot be assigned to multiple partitions in order to keep the files from different FSE partitions separated. An FSE partition can have assigned multiple media pools which do not need to be of the same type. This means that regular and WORM media pools can be combined on the same FSE partition, unless the partition is a WORM FSE partition.

By assigning multiple media pools to one FSE partition, multiple copies of FSE data are made. This kind of FSE partition configuration is described in ”Multiple copying” on page 147. For more information on media pool types and their configuration, see ”FSE media pools” on page 91.

FSE medium

FSE supports different types of tape media and also disk media for data storage. Each FSE medium, either a medium cartridge or disk medium has an entry and properties written in the Resource Management Database (RMDB). Each FSE medium is assigned to one FSE media pool. For more information on media types, see ”FSE media types” on page 99.

Depending on the particular medium type, an FSE medium can be formatted and further divided into partitions that hold medium volumes. The Resource Manager identifies the medium with a barcode. For media specifics regarding their type, see ”FSE media types” on page 99 and ”Disk media” on page 99.

FSE library

An FSE library is any library of the supported tape libraries which is attached to the consolidated FSE system or FSE server in an FSE implementation. An FSE implementation can have one or more FSE libraries. Each FSE library is a repository of library slots, where medium cartridges are physically located, with a built-in changer device to move the media around. It has one or more connected drives.

14 Introducing HP StorageWorks File System Extender

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HP File System Extender (FSE) manual FSE media pool, FSE medium, FSE library, File System Catalog

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.