Chapter 2. The Network File System Client/Server Model

To understand how the Network File System works on AS/400, you must ®rst understand the communication relationship between a server and various clients. The client/server model involves a local host (the client) that makes a procedure call that is usually processed on a different, remote network system (the server). To the client, the procedure appears to be a local one, even though another system processes the request. In some cases, however, a single computer can act as both an NFS client and an NFS server.

Figure 7. The NFS Client/Server Model

There are various resources on the server which are not available on the client, hence the need for such a communication relationship. The host owning the needed resource acts as a server that communicates to the host which initiates the original call for the resource, the client. In the case of NFS, this resource is usually a shared ®le system, a directory, or an object.

RPC is the mechanism for establishing such a client/server relationship within NFS. RPC bundles up the arguments intended for a procedure call into a packet of data called a network datagram. The NFS client creates an RPC session with an NFS server by connecting to the proper server for the job and transmitting the datagram to that server. The arguments are then unpacked and decoded on the server. The operation is processed by the server and a return message (should one exist) is sent back to the client. On the client, this reply is transformed into a return value for NFS. The user's application is re-entered as if the process had taken place on a local level.

Network File System Client/Server Communication Design

The logical layout of the Network File System on the client and server involves numerous daemons, caches, and the NFS protocol breakdown. An overview of each type of process follows.

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IBM AS/400E manual Network File System Client/Server Model, Network File System Client/Server Communication Design
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AS/400E specifications

The IBM AS/400E, now more commonly known as IBM i, is a robust and versatile midrange server that has been designed to provide a comprehensive computing solution for businesses of all sizes. First introduced in the late 1980s, the AS/400 series has undergone multiple enhancements and rebranding, with the AS/400E being one of the notable iterations. This powerful platform is closely associated with IBM's commitment to reliability, scalability, and integrated business solutions.

One of the main features of the AS/400E is its highly integrated architecture that combines hardware and software into a cohesive system. This integration allows for seamless operations, reducing the complexity typically associated with managing disparate systems. The system is powered by IBM's proprietary OS/400 operating system, which has evolved into IBM i, featuring advanced capabilities like object-oriented programming, integrated database management, and security features that are essential for enterprise environments.

A key characteristic of the AS/400E is its robust database support, primarily through the use of DB2 for i. This integrated database management system enables efficient data handling and retrieval, facilitating real-time business analytics and reporting. Furthermore, the platform supports a variety of programming languages, including RPG, COBOL, and Java, making it flexible for developers who require diverse tools for application development.

The AS/400E is also known for its exceptional reliability and uptime, making it a preferred choice for critical business applications in industries such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. This reliability is backed by advanced error detection and correction mechanisms, as well as redundancy features that help prevent data loss and minimize downtime.

In terms of scalability, the AS/400E can effortlessly expand to accommodate growing business demands. Organizations can increase processing power by adding more resources without significant disruption. This scalability, combined with the system’s built-in virtualization capabilities, allows businesses to optimize resource usage and streamline operations.

Security is another defining feature of the AS/400E. The platform incorporates various layers of security measures, including user authentication, encryption, and comprehensive auditing capabilities, ensuring that sensitive business data is protected against unauthorized access.

Overall, the IBM AS/400E remains a powerful tool in the enterprise computing landscape, providing businesses with an integrated, reliable, and secure solution for their technological needs. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its capability to evolve with changing business requirements while maintaining its core attributes of high performance and stability.
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