Method and system for automated backup copy ordering in a time zero

Abstract

A method in a data processing system for generating a backup copy of designated datasets during concurrent execution of an application. Upon receiving a request for a backup copy, execution of an application is suspended. A dataset logical-to-physical storage system address concordance for the designated datasets is formed, and execution of the application is resumed thereafter. A resource manager is established to manage all input and output functions between storage subsystems, storage subsystem memory associated with each of the storage subsystems, and a temporary host memory during formation of the backup copy. Formation of the backup copy is accomplished on a scheduled or opportunistic basis by copying the designated datasets from the storage subsystems and then updating the address concordance in response to the copying. Application updates are processed during formation of the backup copy by buffering the updates, copying the affected uncopied designated datasets to a storage subsystem memory, updating the address concordance in response to the copying, and processing the updates. Designated datasets can also be copied to the temporary host memory in the event the number of designated datasets in the storage subsystem memory exceeds a threshold number. Finally, the designated datasets are copied to an alternate storage memory from the storage subsystem, storage subsystem memory and temporary host memory utilizing the resource manager and the altered address concordance to create a specified order backup copy of the designated datasets from said copied portions of the designated datasets without user intervention.