Abstract: Methods and associated structure for updating and propagating firmware updates in a multiple redundant controller storage subsystem. The methods of the present invention assure that the storage subsystem remains operable processing host system I/O requests while the redundant controllers manage the firmware update process. At least one controller of a plurality of redundant controllers in the system remains available for processing of host I/O requests as the controllers manage the firmware update process. A management client process operable on an administrative system coupled to the first of the redundant storage controllers transfers a structured firmware file to the first redundant controller. The management client need perform no further management of the update process. Rather, the controller themselves manage the process in accordance with metadata stored within the firmware file along with the programmed instructions to be updated.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a method and apparatus for ensuring the unique zoning membership representation in a network environment. In one aspect, the members of a container may be evaluated to determine whether any are subordinate to or children of a target member of the same container. The subordinate or child members may be removed from the container's configuration. Generally following the removal of any subordinate or child members of the target member, a determination may be made as to whether the target member is a child of or subordinate to any container members remaining in the container's configuration. If the target member is determined to be subordinate to or a child of a remaining container member, the target member may be removed from the container's configuration. Consequently, redundant member entries, unintentional communication paths and the complexities associated with creating a zoning configuration may be avoided.