Patent ID: 8099550
Filing Date: 2012-01-17
Classification: G06F,H04L

Abstract:
1. A data storage method comprising: defining a multicast group within a local area network, wherein the multicast group includes a storage initiator device and a plurality of storage targets, wherein each of the plurality of storage targets includes: receiving, on the storage initiator device, a write request for storing a data segment within the multicast group; generating a “check exist” message that defines the data segment to be stored within the multicast group; multicasting the “check exist” message to the plurality of storage targets included within the multicast group; processing the “check exist” message on each of the plurality of storage targets to compare the data segment defined within the “check exist” message to the one or more data segments identified within the storage index to determine if the data segment to be stored within the multicast group is already stored on the storage target processing the “check exist” message; and generating, on the storage target processing the “check exist” message, a negative response message that is multicast to the multicast group, wherein the negative response message includes information concerning the storage target processing the “check exist” message chosen from the group consisting of: identification of the available storage capacity; identification of the current load; identification of the current health; and identification of the proximity.