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FluidFS 3.0 Data Protection

Managing the Anti-Virus Service

The FluidFS cluster anti‐virus service provides real‐time anti‐virus scanning of files stored in CIFS shares. The anti‐virus service applies only to CIFS shares; NFS is not supported. The scan operation is transparent to the client, subject to the availability of an anti‐virus server.

A file is scanned only when a client tries to open the file (not when an infected file is written, a file is opened to read/modify attributes, old files are opened for re‐write, and so on).

The anti‐virus service consists of two components:

•One or more network‐accessible computers running a supported third‐party, ICAP‐ enabled anti‐virus application to provide the anti‐virus scanning service to the FluidFS cluster.

•A FluidFS cluster anti‐virus scanning policy that specifies file extensions and directories to exclude from scans, an anti‐virus scanning file size threshold, and whether to allow or deny files larger than the file size threshold.

When a CIFS share client requests a file from the FluidFS cluster, the FluidFS cluster passes the file to an anti‐virus server for scanning and then takes one of the following actions:

•If the file is virus‐free, the FluidFS cluster permits client access. The FluidFS cluster does not scan that file again, providing it remains unmodified since the last check.

•If the file is infected, the FluidFS cluster denies client access. There is no indication to the client that the file is infected. The client experience is:

–A file deletion returns a system‐specific ʺfile not foundʺ state for a missing file, depending on the client’s computer.

–An access denial might be interpreted as a file permissions problem.

Only storage administrators can recover an uninfected version of the file, or access and process the infected file. To gain access to an infected file, you must connect to the CIFS share through another CIFS share on which the anti‐virus service is disabled. Otherwise, the FluidFS cluster recognizes the file as infected, and denies access. You may also access the file through an NFS export, because NFS does not support anti‐virus.

File transfers between the FluidFS cluster and the anti‐virus server are not encrypted. Therefore, Dell recommends protecting/restricting the communication.

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Dell NX3600, NX3500, NX3610 manual FluidFS 3.0 Data Protection, Managing the Anti-Virus Service
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NX3500, NX3600, NX3610 specifications

The Dell NX series, including the NX3610, NX3600, and NX3500, represents a robust and efficient solution for organizations seeking to optimize their storage solutions. These storage appliances are designed to meet the growing needs of data-driven businesses, providing a comprehensive platform that integrates software and hardware for optimal performance.

The Dell NX3610 is a high-performance storage solution that boasts an advanced dual-controller architecture. This model supports enhanced scalability and redundancy, ensuring that organizations can handle increasing data loads effortlessly. It is built for faster data access with a range of connectivity options, including 10GbE and iSCSI, enabling seamless integration into diverse IT environments. The NX3610 supports advanced file sharing capabilities, making it ideal for businesses requiring efficient collaboration and data access across multiple platforms. Furthermore, with features like snapshot and replication, users can ensure data integrity and security, minimizing downtime in case of system failures.

The NX3600, while slightly smaller in capacity compared to the NX3610, still delivers formidable performance and flexibility. It is designed to cater to mid-sized businesses that need a reliable and cost-effective storage solution. The NX3600 features a single-controller architecture, making it easier to manage and deploy in smaller IT environments. It offers support for various storage protocols, including NFS and CIFS, which are essential for organizations looking to support diverse application workloads. Its easy-to-use management interface makes it simple for IT teams to monitor and configure settings, ensuring optimal performance with minimal effort.

The NX3500 serves as an entry-level model within the NX series, specifically targeted at small to medium-sized businesses. It combines affordability with essential features needed for efficient data storage and sharing. The NX3500 is equipped with a user-friendly interface and includes support for both file-based and block-based storage, offering flexibility for diverse workloads. Moreover, the appliance features integrated backup solutions, which are crucial for ensuring data safety and compliance. Users will also appreciate its robust data deduplication and compression capabilities that significantly reduce storage costs by minimizing the amount of data stored.

In summary, the Dell NX3610, NX3600, and NX3500 are engineered to cater to various business sizes and storage demands. With their sophisticated technologies, including dual-controller systems, rich protocol support, and user-friendly management features, these appliances deliver reliable, scalable, and efficient storage solutions for any organization looking to enhance its data management capabilities.
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