Offloaded Data Transfer (ODX) is a feature in Windows that enables efficient data transfer within or
between compatible storage arrays, minimizing the host resources used during these operations.
When a Microsoft Windows host is connected to an XtremIO array, leveraging ODX can significantly
reduce the host’s CPU and network resource utilization during Volume Shadow Copy Service (VSS)
operations1.
ODX Functionality: ODX offloads the data transfer workload from the host to the storage array itself.
This means that data can be moved or copied within the array without passing through the host, thus
not consuming host bandwidth or processing power1.
VSS Operations: During VSS operations, which create snapshots or backups of data, there can be a
significant amount of data movement. Utilizing ODX allows these operations to be handled more
efficiently by the storage array, freeing up the host to perform other tasks1.
XtremIO Compatibility: XtremIO supports ODX, which allows it to handle data movement operations
internally. This is particularly beneficial in environments where frequent snapshots or backups are
taken, as it ensures minimal impact on host performance1.
Other Options: While MPIO (OA) is used for path redundancy and load balancing, VAAI (OB) offloads
certain storage operations to the array, and VSI (OC) is a set of VMware integration tools, none of
these specifically address the reduction of host resource utilization during VSS operations as
effectively as ODX1.
