Understanding multiple network paths

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Data Protection for SAP allows multiple network connections (paths) for data transfer between the database server and the backup server. Parallel paths can be used to eliminate network points of constraint.

Figure 1. Parallel (multiple) paths

This graphic shows the principle of multiple network paths. By using several network adapters, the network is able to handle multiple network connections at the same time. This environment allows the backup of data from the database server to the IBM Storage Protect server through more than one network connection in parallel (parallel network paths).

For each additional path, more network adapters are required on both the production and the backup server. A server statement must be entered in the Data Protection for SAP profile for each adapter of the backup server. This scenario is described for the SERVER keyword in the Profile parameter descriptions topic. The value of the MAX_SESSIONS keyword is not greater than the sum of all SESSION values specified for the SERVER statements that are used concurrently. Detailed information about setting up multiple parallel network paths is described in the Parallel backup paths and backup servers topic.