VMware VAAI
vStorage APIs for Array Integration (VAAI) are APIs that improve system performance and scalability by using the
storage system resources more effectively.
The ETERNUS AF supports the following features.
•
Full Copy (XCOPY)
Data copying processes can be performed in the ETERNUS AF without the use of a server such as when
replicating or migrating the virtual machine. With Full Copy (XCOPY), the load on the servers is reduced and
the system performance is improved.
•
Block Zeroing
When allocating storage areas to create new virtual machines, it is necessary to zero out these storage areas
for the initialization process. This process was previously performed on the server side. By performing this
process on the ETERNUS AF side instead, the load on the servers is reduced and the dynamic capacity
allocation (provisioning) of the virtual machines is accelerated.
•
Hardware Assisted Locking
This control function enables the use of smaller blocks that are stored in the ETERNUS AF for exclusive control
of specific storage areas.
Compared to LUN (logical volume) level control that is implemented in "VMware vSphere", enabling access
control in block units minimizes the storage areas that have limited access using exclusive control and
improves the operational efficiency of virtual machines.
VMware vCenter Server
•
vCenter linkage
Various information of the ETERNUS AF can be displayed on vSphere Web Client by expanding the user
interface of VMware Web Client. Because storage side information is more visualized, integrated management
of the infrastructure under a virtual environment can be realized and usability can be improved.
ETERNUS vCenter Plug-in is required to use this function.
VMware VVOL
The ETERNUS AF supports Virtual Volumes (VVOLs) that are VMware vSphere dedicated logical volumes.
When using VVOLs, they are automatically created and copied in the ETERNUS AF while VMs are operated from
vSphere Client. As a result, operations can be simplified by eliminating the need to configure logical volumes
and backups in the ETERNUS AF.
■
Operational Configuration
VVOL configuration and management are performed from ETERNUS SF Storage Cruiser. ETERNUS VASA Provider
(software) is required in the storage management server to coordinate vSphere with the ETERNUS AF. For details
on ETERNUS VASA Provider, refer to
.
2. Basic Functions
Server Linkage Functions
121
Design Guide
Summary of Contents for ETERNUS AF S3 Series
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