MachineMetrics is designed to buffer and retain machine data during common connectivity disruptions. When temporary interruptions occur, the MachineMetrics Edge Device, whether a hosted Virtual Edge or a physical appliance, can buffer data locally and backfill retained data once connectivity is restored. This helps preserve continuity in machine timelines, reports, and dashboards.
Data recovery depends on whether machine data was successfully captured and retained during the interruption. Certain conditions can prevent data from being recoverable, and those limitations are outlined below.
Note on Connectivity Terms
Local network connectivity refers to the connection between machines and the MachineMetrics Edge Device. This is separate from internet connectivity. Machines can stop sending data to the Edge Device even if the Edge Device itself is fully connected to the internet.
How Data Buffering and Backfill Works
When machine data is being successfully received by the MachineMetrics Edge Device:
Temporary internet interruptions do not typically stop data collection
Data is buffered locally for a limited period
Once connectivity is restored, retained data is automatically uploaded and backfilled into MachineMetrics
This buffering and backfill behavior is a core capability of the platform and requires no manual action when conditions are met.
Key Data Retention Principle
MachineMetrics can only backfill data that was successfully captured and retained by the Edge Device. Data from extended outages, internal network interruptions, machine disconnections, or hardware failures may be permanently unavailable.
This principle applies in all scenarios described below.
Internet Connectivity Loss
If internet connectivity is lost but the MachineMetrics Edge Device remains powered and continues receiving data from machines over the local network:
Data is typically buffered locally for a limited period
Retained data is sent to MachineMetrics once the connection is restored
In many cases, this results in minimal or no visible data gaps
If machines are unable to send data to the Edge Device during this time, buffering and backfill cannot occur.
Power Loss or Local Network Disruption
If the MachineMetrics Edge Device loses power or if the local network connection between machines and the Edge Device is interrupted:
Machine data cannot be captured during that time
This can occur even if the Edge Device itself still has internet connectivity
Activity that occurs while machines are disconnected is not recoverable
Data captured before the interruption and after connectivity is restored is retained normally.
Internal Network Issues or Machine Disconnections
If internal networking issues prevent machines from sending data to the MachineMetrics Edge Device:
Data generated during that period is not captured
This includes unplugged machines, disabled ports, controller changes, switch or VLAN issues, or other internal network misconfigurations
Data from these periods cannot be recovered later
Ensuring stable internal networking and machine connectivity is required for continuous data capture.
Extended Outages
During extended outages such as prolonged internet loss, repeated restarts, or unstable connectivity, data retention is not guaranteed.
In these situations:
Some or all data from the outage period may be permanently unavailable
Recovery depends on whether data was captured and retained throughout the interruption
MachineMetrics does not guarantee full data recovery after extended interruptions.
Summary
MachineMetrics is designed to buffer data during common connectivity disruptions
Retained data is automatically backfilled when connectivity is restored
Data recovery depends on successful capture and retention by the Edge Device
Extended outages, internal network issues, machine disconnections, or hardware failures can result in permanent data unavailability
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