Extent virtualization
AssigneeMicrosoft Corporation
InventorGalen C. Hunt
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
Files can be segmented into distinct groups and allocated storage units such as blocks. Files associated with parent and child files can be segmented into separate groups, for instance. Further, a group associated with parent files can be extended to include additional blocks reserved for subsequent update. Additionally, metadata can be merged across groups to provide a unified view of the distinct groups.
Claims20
A method of extent virtualization, comprising:
- employing at least one processor configured to execute computer-executable instructions stored in memory to perform the following acts:
- segregating parent and child files into separate groups of blocks, wherein the parent file group is extended to include a set of reserved blocks for updates.
An extent virtualization system, comprising:
- a processor coupled to a memory, the processor configured to execute the following computer-executable components stored in the memory:
- a first component configured to segment parent and child files into different groups;
- and
- a second component configured to cause a groups of blocks for the files to be allocated including additional reserved blocks for a parent file.
A computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon that enables at least one processor to perform the following acts:
- segregating a master-image virtual hard disk (VHD) and one or more dependent differencing VHDs into distinct groups of blocks, wherein a group of blocks designated for the master-image VHD is extended to include a set of blocks reserved for updates.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.