Automatically Slow Down File Transfers to Control Network Load

Those responsible for information technology (IT) within any organization know the immense challenges they face. Cyberattacks, be they breaches or invasions, information leaks, and outright failure of firewalls, are some of the biggest concerns, but what about the day-to-day work? 

Simple file transfers, for instance, take a significant toll on network bandwidth. The replication and synchronization of files, essential as they are, can place immense strain on network resources. Bandwidth throttling offers a solution to mitigating many pain points associated with file management.

Benefits of Bandwidth Throttling for File Synchronization

Bandwidth throttling automatically regulates file transfer rates, silently working to protect optimal network functionality. In doing so, the functionality maintains a balanced network load, particularly when large volumes of data are being synchronized and replicated. 

Visualize the challenge this way. Bandwidth throttling is like a well-tuned traffic control system. Without it, a surge in data transfer, much like a sudden influx of vehicles, could easily overwhelm the network, leading to slowdowns or, in severe cases, complete network stoppages. Bandwidth throttling mitigates this risk, intelligently slowing down data transfer rates to prevent congestion.

In addition to ensuring the network remains stable and functional, the process guarantees that synchronized files, regardless of size, reach their intended destination in a timely manner. Smoothing out the load means preventing sudden spikes and drops in network performance, which otherwise could disrupt file replication processes. 

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Bandwidth Throttling Categories in SureSync

SureSync MFT offers two highly effective solutions for network load management through its bandwidth throttling feature – fixed throttling and dynamic throttling. 

Fixed throttling is a Quality of Service (QoS) type designed to allocate fixed bandwidth. It provides steadiness and predictability regarding network load and mitigates unexpected network surges. For instance, with a T1 connection, a fixed throttle could be used to allocate 1Mbps maximum to file synchronization processing. This leaves .4 Mbps of the bandwidth available for other processes at all times. SureSync MFT ensures important file synchronization tasks always have the bandwidth needed without affecting other network operations.

Dynamic throttling offers network adaptability to load management. By design, dynamic throttling adjusts the allocated bandwidth in real time, considering current network conditions. It closely monitors the network availability and automatically modifies the bandwidth usage for file synchronization accordingly. If network conditions change, the dynamic throttle adapts, ensuring optimal use of available bandwidth. This feature is particularly beneficial under fluctuating network conditions or when multiple file synchronization processes run concurrently.

Application Levels for Bandwidth Throttles

Bandwidth throttling flexibility critically provides precise control over network load management at various levels.

Contextually speaking, in the SureSync MFT architecture, we define operational entities as ‘Jobs’. We can assign various scheduling parameters to execute these jobs on a schedule or in real time. In the standard SureSync framework, we use ‘Schedules’ and ‘Real-Time Monitors’ entities. We integrate jobs into these entities to run on a schedule or in real time.

A critical difference between SureSync and SureSync MFT lies in implementing fixed and dynamic filters. Both systems include these filters, but they define them differently. In SureSync, we set these filters at the Job/Schedule/Real-Time Monitor level, whereas in SureSync MFT, we set them at the server level for each server.

For real-time operations, SureSync and SureSync MFT can adjust bandwidth throttles based on different time intervals throughout the day.

At the Job/Schedule/Real-Time Monitor level, adjustable throttling can match the specific demands of each operation, be it a routine data replication or real-time data synchronization. Doing so ensures that each operation gets the bandwidth needed while preventing network congestion.

At the connection level, bandwidth throttling manages multiple connections simultaneously. Allocating specific bandwidth to each connection ensures efficient utilization of network resources, preventing bandwidth monopolization. 

Throttling at the Communications Agent level manages the overall network load, vitally protecting network stability, especially in large-scale environments with multiple data synchronization processes running concurrently.

Embracing Network Control with SureSync

SureSync MFT’s dual approach to bandwidth throttling, incorporating both macro and micro levels, provides users with exceptional control, effectively optimizing network usage. Users can apply throttling to individual tasks or jobs on a micro level, allowing for tailored bandwidth allocation based on each job’s specific needs. This can be particularly beneficial when managing smaller, less urgent tasks and larger, mission-critical jobs that need more bandwidth to complete efficiently.

Users can manage bandwidth throttling across the entire system on the macro level. This translates into more significant control over the system’s network load, ensuring optimal performance even when handling numerous simultaneous tasks. This high-level control is crucial in preventing bandwidth saturation and preventing undue disruptions.

Conclusion

At Software Pursuits, we understand the challenges of managing network load. SureSync MFT’s bandwidth throttling feature empowers IT professionals and those overseeing company networks to maintain optimal network performance regardless of data load conditions. A well-managed network is the backbone of smooth and uninterrupted business operations.

Experience SureSync MFT’s bandwidth throttling feature — and other features — firsthand. To begin your journey towards smoother, more efficient operations, contact our team or start your free trial.