Network file management uses storage virtualization to allow users to access files as if they were stored on their local computer, with a uniform file naming system and logical group mapping. Clients interact with servers via NFS protocol, while NAS devices simplify network file management and can incorporate RAID for added storage virtualization. Virtual file systems mediate all requests to access and save data, simplifying tasks such as backup and security access.
Network file management solves the problems inherent in providing access to computer files that might exist on a number of network connected devices. Typically, this involves some form of storage virtualization that allows a user to access files as if they were stored on their local computer. In a distributed file system, files can reside on one or more servers or network-attached storage (NAS) devices. A virtual user interface is implemented through a uniform file naming system and the mapping of logical groups, such as directories, to locations in physical storage.
In most network file management scenarios, the computers are either clients or servers. Clients are workstations that run applications and rely on servers for resources such as storage. Typically, clients do not have direct access to data, but interact with the server via a Network File System (NFS) protocol. Access to files and permission to modify them can be subject to the user’s security authorization level. A virtual file system (VFS) overlays the protocol, allowing users to access shared network files as if they were stored locally.
Specifically designed to store computer files, the NAS device has come to replace the general purpose computers often assigned to that task. Its dedicated design simplifies network file management and increases the efficiency of data delivery to workstations. The NFS server still mediates service requests, but the NAS device is responsible for forwarding data and updating changed files. Since it’s not part of the server, multiple NAS devices can reside anywhere on the network and can be added or removed without shutting down the server.
These devices can also incorporate an additional storage virtualization called RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks). Files can be stored and copied to multiple disks within the NAS while accessed as if they were on one storage medium. This is another scheme designed to simplify the administration of the complexities of network file management. The user remains protected by a virtual interface and continues to work as if the requested data were at hand, stored in his local machine.
The physical memory available in a network is divided into equal basic amounts called physical extents. These are mapped to virtual storage units, called logical extents, of the same size from which groupings such as files, directories and volumes can be assembled. The location of the actual physical extents that contain the data is invisible and unimportant to the user. Virtual file systems mediate all requests to access and save data. The ability to work with storage at a virtual level simplifies network file management tasks such as backup, security access, and the ability to easily add or remove data storage resources.
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