DataKeeper for Windows All Documentation - SIOS

Snapshot Location SizeIMPORTANT: The maximum size of a volume to be snapshotted is 2 TB.When configuring the snapshot location, make sure it meets the following criteria:• Is only used when a snapshot is requested.• Cannot be stored on a DataKeeper mirrored volume.• Can store multiple snapshot files for different volumes.• Must have enough free space to create and accommodate a file that will grow depending on the sourcemirrored volume size and writes during snapshot use.Note: Do not change the snapshot location during a snapshot.Snapshot Location SizeThe size of the snapshot location should be determined on an individual basis based on severalcriteria. In practice, the size required for the snapshot file will be far less than the size of thevolume being snapshotted. The storage required needs to be big enough to contain any data thatchanges on the source system while the snapshot is being used. All snapshot files will bezeroed out each time a snapshot is initiated and will incrementally grow in size during use. Thefiles will be deleted when the snapshot is dropped. Given that the copy on write process onlywrites "changed" blocks to the snapshot file, consideration should be given to the duration of thesnapshot as well as the rate of change in the volume being mirrored. Once an historical viewcan be established of snapshots from past activity, the size can be re-evaluated.BEST PRACTICE: Be conservative in your estimate, assuring that there isexcess space available. If enough space is not allocated and the limit is reached,your snapshot will be dropped.Snapshot Location Selection1. Right-click on the appropriate mirror and select Mirror Properties.2. From the Mirror Properties dialog, select the Snapshots tab.DataKeeper for Windows Technical DocumentationPage 134