In the previous post, we have roughly talk about the features of StorSimple. Let start exploring those feature by these simple steps:
- Qos Configuration
- Specify Target Server iSCSCI IQN
- Assign Windows Azure Cloud Credential
- Create Cloud Configuration
- Create, present a LUN and configure Backup Policy
Create Qos Configuration
The 1st step that we need to do is set bandwidth throttling. I am going to put a cap 10 Mbps on bandwidth during working hours (Mon – Friday start 9.00 am to 5.00pm)
Specify Target Server iSCSI IQN
Then get your target server iSCSI IQN using iScsi Initiator IQN and register into storsimple appliance. This allow us to control which server has access to StorSimple
Assign Cloud Credential
Once of the beauty of StorSimple is to allow us to transfer the backup to Cloud. It is one of the way to eliminate / reduce the usage of tape and allow us to transfer the data securely without worrying of tape safety and reliability of data is protected.
Full list of Cloud Supported by StorSimple:-
Before proceed with cloud registration, please make sure that you have create Cloud Storage in Windows Azure
Once storage is created, you can copy the primary key and register into StorSimple
Create Cloud Configuration
Once you’re enter the Cloud Credential, the next step is configure Cloud Configuration by specify Primary Cloud Storage Credential, Backup Cloud and use the Qos policy that you’re created in step1
For security purpose, do remember to enable AES 256 military grade encryption to protect your data and define your own private key. (keep it in a safe location)
Create Volume/ LUN
Now you’re ready to provision a LUN
Enter your LUN detail
Choose your LUN type which is closer to your data.
For security purpose, do remember to set access control list and limit LUN access to specify server.
Once, you click SAVE, on your target server you can use iSCSI Initiator to connect StorSimple and able to view your LUN by using Computer Management Snap-in.
Backup Policy
If you would like your data to backup to cloud, remember to tick Cloud Snapshot. You also can modify the backup policy and specify retention range to keep the data, backup type, scheduling and expire date.
StorSimple support 3 types of backup
a) Snapshot – a backup copy of volume, stored on the appliance.
b) Cloud Snapshot – A backup copy of volume and store in the cloud as an off site backup copy. This similar as snapshot that has been replicated off –site
c) Cloud Clone – An independent backup copy, stored separately in the cloud as an offsite backup copy. This is similar as to off site tape copies
Well, that’s all for today on how easy to configure StorSimple from access control, bandwidth throttling, Cloud Configuration, LUN and Backup Policy.
Stay tuned. I will show this demo during outcoming Singapore Cloud OS event on 17 Oct 2013.
