Network scaling approach for hyper-converged infrastructure (hci) and heterogeneous storage clusters

Abstract

Network scaling techniques for HCI and/or heterogeneous storage clusters. The techniques are based on the use of cluster-wide logical networks and IP port abstractions. Each logical network represents a pool of IP addresses having a common set of properties. Each logical network has an associated type and a corresponding set of protocols that define its purpose. Each IP port abstraction is associated with physical and/or virtual network objects inherently visible to a storage administrator. Each IP port abstraction functions as a target for assignment of an IP address from a pool of IP addresses represented by a logical network. The IP port abstractions are backed by underlying heterogeneous network objects but have unified sets of capabilities. Network scaling can be implemented by applying one or more IP addresses represented by one or more logical networks to selected sets of IP port abstractions backed by underlying heterogeneous network objects.