Patent ID: 8316202
Filing Date: 2012-11-20
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A method for utilizing a networked redundant array of inexpensive disks (RAID) configuration in a networked storage cluster having two or more nodes that exposes a storage capacity to one or more initiators, the method comprising: allocating a first portion of the storage capacity of the storage cluster to a first tier, wherein data stored in the first tier is organized in a chained declustered configuration; allocating a second portion of the storage capacity of the storage cluster to a second tier, wherein data stored in the second tier is organized in a networked RAID-5 configuration; monitoring the frequency at which the data stored in the first tier and the second tier is accessed; and promoting data that is accessed frequently from the second tier to the first tier, and demoting data that is used infrequently from the first tier to the second tier, wherein the storage cluster comprises N storages nodes, wherein demoting data that is accessed infrequently comprises: subdividing a zone stored in the first tier into N−1 sub-zones; calculating the parity of the sub-zones; and storing each of the sub-zones and the calculated parity in the second tier on different nodes of the storage cluster, and wherein the first tier and the second tier are subdivided into zones having a same size.