File server

The file server provides shared NFS storage that all servers in a multiple primary servers environment access. Job data, configuration files, and system resources reside on the file server.
  1. Verify that the file server meets the minimum hardware requirements.
    Resource Requirement
    Processor x86 computer capable of running a supported 64-bit Linux operating system
    CPU cores Minimum 4 physical CPU cores
    RAM Minimum 8 GB available RAM
    Hard-drive space 200 GB free
    Network Reliable, low-latency connection to the file server (NFS) and the database server
  2. Verify that the file server has sufficient storage for the shared directory structure.

    File server storage allocation

    Directory Minimum size Recommended size Purpose
    /mpaiw/primary1aiw/ 40 GB 80+ GB Shared directory for the lead primary server
    /mpaiw/primary2aiw/ 40 GB 80+ GB Shared directory for the alternate primary server
    /mpaiw/sharedaiw/ 30 GB 50+ GB Shared directory for common resources
  3. Evaluate your storage requirements based on the following factors:
    • Job volume — Each job creates spool files that remain until the job completes and retention policies remove them.
    • Retention periods — Longer retention periods increase storage consumption because historical data accumulates.
    • Control files and resources — Transform resources, fonts, and forms occupy space that remains relatively constant.
    • Log files — Log files grow continuously. Regular log rotation prevents logs from consuming excessive storage.
  4. Verify that the file server meets the following network requirements:
    • A dedicated network interface for NFS traffic, if possible.
    • Gigabit Ethernet (minimum) between the file server and all other servers.
    • Low-latency connectivity (place the file server on the same network segment as the primary servers).
  5. Select a storage system that supports online expansion so you can increase storage capacity without taking the system offline.
  6. When mounting the shared directory, include the actimeo=0 option to disable attribute caching and prevent performance issues.
  7. If you run the file server on a virtual machine (VM), define the VM guest with dedicated storage I/O resources.

    Do not overcommit storage or network I/O on the virtual host, because NFS performance degrades under resource contention.

Parent topic: Hardware requirements