Oracle International Corporation

Brocade Communications Systems, Inc.

Mcdata Corporation

Keith Noe

Jesse Willeke

James Mark Walden

Keith Radebaugh

Damon Neil Clark

Described herein are systems and methods for replicating an original sequential data volume to a copied sequential data volume. The two sequential data volumes comprise corresponding data blocks with associated write session identifiers. The write session identifiers may correspond to an applicable write operation. When the original sequential data volume is modified, the copied sequential data volume may also be modified for consistency. The write session identifiers of the two data volumes may be sequentially compared to find a mismatch at a modified data block. The data blocks of the copied sequential data volume are replaced, beginning with the modified data block. Instead of replicating the entire original sequential data volume, the modified data block and any subsequent data blocks are replicated in the copied sequential data volume.

Sequential storage volume replication based on comparison of write session identifiers

Implementations are disclosed that provide protocols for connecting an intelligent service module within a storage area network (SAN). The protocols support physical connections between the intelligent service module and a director-level switch of the SAN. In some variations, the intelligent service module may comprise a director service module (DSM), a domain-sharing leaf switch service module (LSSM), or a non-domain-sharing LSSM. The protocols provide for establishing link parameters and negotiating responsibilities between the intelligent service module and the director-level switch. In one configuration, for example, ELP and ELP_ACCEPT frames may be used to establish the link parameters. In another configuration, ESC and ESC_ACCEPT frames may be used to negotiate responsibilities between the intelligent service module and the director-level switch. Other configurations also provide an ownership status of the intelligent service module that is used to determine whether the switch can initiate management of the intelligent service module.

Protocols for connecting intelligent service modules in a storage area network

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Westminster, CO, United States of America

Keith Noe