Storage Networking Fundamentals: An Introduction to Storage Devices, Subsystems, Applications, Management, and File Systems (Vol 1)

Chapter 15. Network File Systems and Network Attached Storage

Upon completing this chapter, you will be able to

• Participate in discussions and meetings regarding implementations of network attached storage products and file server software

• Discuss the primary differences between NFS and CIFS, including their applicability for different types of client applications

• Participate in the evaluation of file server software and NAS systems for your environment

Storing data files on server systems is one of the most common functions in local area networks (LANs). The software products that provide these filing functions are known by several different names, but in this chapter they are referred to generically as Network File Systems. Network file systems are generally considered to be the simplest and most direct way to implement storage networking, especially if network attached storage (NAS) products are used.

Network file systems extend traditional file system functions into client/server network environments. From their inception, network file systems have been implemented aggressively. In fact, one can argue that network file storage has been the most influential application spurring the growth of LAN technology in the last three decades. The widespread use of network file servers inspired the creation of the sizeable NAS storage industry.

This chapter examines the basic structures, operations, and applications of network file systems. The first part of the chapter is spent discussing network file system technology, and the second part analyzes its close cousin, NAS.