Patent ID: 6226759
Filing Date: 2001-05-01
Classification: G06F,Y10S

Abstract:
A method for backing up an original dataset contained in a storage system, the original dataset having multiple subparts residing at original storage locations, the storage system including a primary set of pointers identifying the original storage locations, the method comprising:creating a virtual backup copy of the original dataset by duplicating the primary set of pointers to create a backup set of pointers;storing a representation of the backup set of pointers in a backup list in association with the virtual backup copy and the original dataset;preserving the backup copy by preventing changes to the original dataset and the backup set of pointers; andin response to receipt of any changes directed to subparts of the original dataset, creating a changed dataset by storing the changes at one or more first change storage locations and updating the primary set of pointers to identify the first change storage locations and any original storage locations containing unchanged subparts of the original dataset.