System, method, and computer program product for shared device of storage compacting

摘要

A virtual storage system, method and computer program product for providing efficient use of storage resources. The system includes a plurality of host systems, an appliance coupled to each of the host systems and at least one physical storage device coupled to the appliance. The appliance manages the allocation of storage space on the physical storage device to the host systems. The appliance allocates virtual storage space to the host systems. The cumulative amount of virtual storage space allocated to the host systems exceeds the actual storage capacity of the physical storage device. The appliance allocates physical space on the physical storage device on an as needed basis.