HP File System Extender (FSE) manual File transfer blockage between Samba client and server

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Limitations of CIFS protocol (Samba) usage with FSE implementation

These limitations apply to FSE users that are accessing HSM file systems located on Linux systems using the CIFS protocol and Samba servers. Samba servers are mostly used by Windows clients.

File transfer blockage between Samba client and server

Samba client processes provide only one thread per session. Therefore, if a Samba client accesses an offline file on an HSM file system, other transfers between the Samba client and the Samba server are blocked by the HSM file system filter. Only after the processed file is recalled completely, can another transfer be made from the same Samba client.

Under certain circumstances this behavior may cause substantial delays in file transfers, especially if files on non-HSM file systems and offline files on HSM file systems are accessed concurrently using the same Samba client. Note that users on other Samba clients (Windows systems) are not affected, since such file transfers are processed for each client separately.

Kernel oplocks may interfere with FSE software

Opportunistic locking, in which the kernel oplocks (also known as file lease), is one of the Samba features intended to increase file-sharing performance. Opportunistic locking is enabled by default.

The usage of kernel oplocks raises a conflict with the FSE software when recalling an opportunistically locked file that resides on an HSM file system. To ensure normal FSE implementation operation, the kernel oplocks feature must be disabled. To disable the kernel oplocks feature, add the line kernel oplocks = no to the [global] section in the Samba configuration file, which is usually:

/etc/samba/smb.conf

or

/usr/local/samba/lib/smb.conf

CAUTION: Disabling the kernel oplocks can cause a decrease in performance when accessing and transferring via Samba. Note that when kernel oplocks are disabled, accessing the same files locally and over a Samba share simultaneously may result in unpredictable file contents.

Unwanted recalls from FSE media in Windows Explorer

Windows 95/98/ME systems

While browsing directories with offline files on HSM file systems via Samba, Windows Explorer initiates the recall process for all files in the browsed directory. In other words, Explorer attempts to read the file header of each file in the directory and this is recognized as a read event by HSM file system filter.

Consequently, the HSM file system filter triggers a recall.

Windows 2000 systems

Windows 2000 clients are able to correctly recognize offline file attribute if a customized Samba server is installed on the host machine with the HSM file systems. For more information about the package with the customized Samba software, refer to the FSE Installation Guide.

Windows NTFS ACLs are not supported through Samba

Windows NTFS Access Control Lists (ACLs) differ from the comparable set of data on Linux. Native access rights on Linux follow the “ownergroupworld – readwriteexecute” schema whereas NTFS ACLs enable, for example, the appointment of delete permissions for individual users. Although it is possible to configure a Samba server on SUSE LINUX Enterprise Server to support ACLs, note that this is a complex procedure that depends on the particular network setup (domain controller, user accounts, and so on).

NOTE: The current version of File System Extender does not support migration and recall of ACLs. ACLs are not recognized by the FSE implementation; therefore, they cannot be migrated to FSE media.

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Contents HP StorageWorks File System Extender File System Extender 3.2 Release Notes Contents Known issues and workarounds Intended audience About this guideRelated documentation Software requirements Document conventions and symbolsPrerequisites Hardware requirementsHP-authorized reseller HP technical supportHelpful web sites Page Hardware requirements Supported hardware and softwareSupported storage arrays, tape drives, and libraries Supported operating systems and platforms Linux platformSoftware requirements Windows platformSupported third-party software Support for LTO Ultrium 3 media New featuresEnhanced robustness Miscellaneous enhancementsNew features General recommendations Shortening the termination delay for FSE commandsRecommendations Keeping the FSC and Hsmdb journals smallPreventing exhaustion of Corba sockets ScanGranularity =Linux-specific recommendations Migrating to a newer tape drive technologyWindows-specific recommendations Improving performance of the FSE-Samba integrationLimitations Common limitationsLinux-specific limitations Reusing file systems for newly configured FSE partitionsSpecial file types are not supported File size limitation Limited symbolic link supportDirectories with sticky bit not supported Append-only and immutable files cannot be releasedFile transfer blockage between Samba client and server Windows-specific limitations Unsupported Windows services and file system featuresRecycle Bin must be disabled on FSE implementation Unsupported third-party softwareLimited support for Windows disk checker Limitations on the Traditional Chinese Windows systemsKnown issues and workarounds Using the command fsefile --migrateDirectoryPath FilenameKnown issues and workarounds
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File System Extender (FSE) specifications

HP File System Extender (FSE) is a sophisticated solution designed to optimize data storage management for enterprises that deal with large volumes of unstructured data. This technology addresses the challenges of data growth and the need for effective data retention strategies, enabling organizations to store and manage their information more efficiently.

One of the main features of HP FSE is its ability to intelligently migrate data between primary and secondary storage. By utilizing policies that determine when to move infrequently accessed files to lower-cost storage environments, FSE helps reduce the strain on primary storage systems and saves on costs associated with high-performance storage solutions. This tiered approach to data management ensures that organizations can access the data they need quickly while still maintaining an efficient overall storage architecture.

Another notable characteristic of HP FSE is its seamless integration with existing storage infrastructures. The solution works with a variety of storage systems, allowing organizations to utilize their current investments without the need for significant changes to their infrastructure. This interoperability is powered by advanced technologies that facilitate data migration and retrieval, ensuring a smooth transition for organizations looking to optimize their storage strategies.

Additionally, HP FSE is equipped with robust reporting and analytics capabilities. This functionality provides organizations with insights into their storage usage, helping them understand data patterns and optimize their storage environments accordingly. By having visibility into which files are accessed most frequently and which are rarely used, organizations can make informed decisions on data retention policies and storage management.

Security is paramount in data management, and HP FSE addresses this concern by implementing advanced data protection features. This includes data encryption, secure access controls, and compliance with industry regulations, ensuring that sensitive information is safeguarded throughout its lifecycle.

Overall, HP File System Extender is a comprehensive data storage solution that combines intelligent data management, seamless integration, insightful analytics, and robust security features. By leveraging these capabilities, organizations can efficiently manage their unstructured data, lower costs, and enhance operational efficiency, making it an invaluable tool in today’s data-driven landscape.
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