MAASS: A Multi-Agent Based Autonomic Storage System.

Abstract: Efficiently manage data, uniformly distribute load, gracefully handle node''s join/departure, all these issues are the significant challenges that cluster-based storage systems are confronted with. Agent is a software entity that has the features of autonomy, cooperation, cognition, mobility and etc. In this paper, to achieve the objective of autonomic management, a multi-agent based storage system (MAASS) is presented. First, the architecture of the storage system and the components of agents are illustrated in detail. Second, to provide self-adaptive service, a model of alternate service based on system load is introduced. Finally, a two-stage load balancing scheme is also proposed to balance I/O load and storage resource utilization. A prototype has been developed by this approach in lab. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]