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Network File Storage (NFS)

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This service is a complement to the Tier 1 Storage provided (to a limited number of clients) by the NetApp storage device. For this reason, NFS is a “Tier 2” storage service: while designed to be robust and reliable, it is not architected for high availability, and so is not recommended for highly-demanding transactional applications. This service is more suited to web page storage, historical or log-file storage, and for distributing files across servers. For security and performance reasons, this service is not designed for individuals or for access from the desktop. In this way, the new service is distinct from existing services like AFS and Windows File Services.

Features and Benefits

  • Share files across multiple Unix servers.
  • Subscribers to this service may optionally request data backups using the Data Center Backup Service.
  • Physical Security  — Files  are stored on storage devices located in the UCSC Data Center.

Availability

This is a 24x7 service supported by the DCO Unix team. Escalation is provided through Data Center Operations and the Unix on-call rotation.

ITS reserves a maintenance window on the first Sunday of each month from 12Noon - 6PM. At least two weeks’ notice will be provided if maintenance is expected to result in a service outage. For planned maintenance, the UCSC Data Center follows the ITS Change Management Process, and planned changes are posted on the ITS Maintenance Calendar.

Data Security

Central Network File Service (NFS) is appropriate for P1 through P3 data. P4 data, excluding HIPAA, is also acceptable. Servers that require this level of service must be cabled to the secure storage network.

Eligibility

NFS is available for servers that are managed by the DCO Unix team. This enables ITS to ensure data security, and overall quality and performance, and also to manage the "fair use" of this free service across the customer base.

Costs

NFS is provided free of charge.

Request this Service

NFS service can be requested through the ITS Support Center. The request should specify the server(s) where the storage is to be mounted, the name of the share, and any required mount options. A DCO Unix system administrator will mount the storage as indicated.

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