Key elements of the JetStream DR architecture:

  • JetStream Management Server Appliance (MSA): The JetStream MSA is a virtual appliance that runs as a plug-in to vCenter Server. It collects and maintains statistics relevant to the protection of the VMs in the cluster(s) managed through vCenter. It also provides administrative functions, such as selecting VMs for protection, etc. The MSA can be accessed through the vSphere Client web GUI, and its functions can also be accessed via CLI or RESTful APIs.
  • IO Filter: VMware vSphere IO Filters are deployed to each vSphere host to enable continuous data intercept for each protected virtual machine’s virtual disks. The IO Filters are deployed through vSphere and run in the data storage path between the VMs and virtual disks. The IO Filters also monitor relevant events, such as vMotion, Storage vMotion, snapshots, etc. 
  • JetStream DR Virtual Appliance (DRVA): The JetStream DRVA is a virtual appliance that maintains the replication log and manages the transfer of VMs and data to the object store. The DRVA also manages functions such as in-line compression and garbage collection.