IBM Storage Virtualize (StorV)

The SVC platform is a part of BVQ° history: it was the first platform that started it all and was continuously expanded over 18 years to keep pace with the features of IBM SVC (or the Storage Virtualize product family) and represent them accordingly.

New challenges, new opportunities

With the introduction of Policy-Based High Availability (PBHA) and Policy-Based Replication (PBR) methods, along with the accompanying FlashSystem Grid architecture, IBM has ushered in a new era for Storage Virtualize.

These concepts bring entirely new requirements that push the existing SVC platform in BVQ° to its limits.

Adapting the existing SVC object model in BVQ°, which has evolved over many years, would have been highly complex and error-prone. Therefore, we saw this moment as an opportunity to eliminate legacy burdens and give the platform a fresh start.

The new platform: IBM Storage Virtualize (StorV)

With StorV, we are introducing a platform that has been developed from the ground up and serves as the long-term successor to the SVC platform. 

Key innovations include:

• System-wide scanning: Multiple clusters can be captured simultaneously (aligned with FlashSystem Grid environments)
• Monitoring for PBHA & PBR including performance metrics
• Integration of new features since Storage Virtualize Code 8.6.x (e.g., volume groups, policies, new performance metrics)
• Optimized object model: Outdated objects and attributes have been removed and terminology has been adapted to the current IBM Storage Virtualize world
• Focus on future technologies: Legacy replication methods such as Global Mirror and Metro Mirror are no longer supported

What does this mean for BVQ° users?

• No further development of the original SVC platform: It will remain for legacy environments but will not be enhanced.
• Recommendation: New Storage Virtualize systems (SVC, FlashSystem) in your environment should now be added using the new StorV scanner in BVQ°.
  Requirement: The monitored systems must have at least code version 8.7.x and must not use any of the legacy Remote Copy functions (GM /MM).
• FlashSystem Grid environments with up to 8 systems can now be monitored
• More analysis options through new performance metrics, objects and attributes 

Conclusion

With “StorV,” a new era begins for BVQ° and IBM Storage Virtualize. This platform represents a technical upgrade for the SVC platform and delivers the following benefits:

• It eliminates legacy burdens from nearly two decades and creates a more advanced architecture.
• It integrates the latest IBM Storage Virtualize features while providing the foundation for future developments.

Another milestone in BVQ°’s evolution has been reached – time for new projects that benefit our users.