Chapter 4. Server Exporting of File Systems

A key feature of the Network File System is its ability to make various local ®le systems, directories, and objects available to remote clients through the export command. Exporting is the ®rst major step in setting up a ªtransparentº relationship between client and server.

Before exporting from the server, remote clients cannot ªseeº or access a given ®le system on the local server. Furthermore, remote clients are completely unaware of the existence ®le systems on the server. Clients cannot mount or work with server ®le systems in any way. After exporting, the clients authorized by the server will be able to mount and then work with server ®le systems. Exported and mounted ®le systems will perform as if they were located on the local workstation. Exporting allows the NFS server administrator a great range of control as to exactly what ®le systems are accessible and which clients can access them.

What is Exporting?

Exporting is the process by which users make local server ®le systems accessible to remote clients. Assuming that remote clients have the proper authorities and access identi®cations, they can see as well as access exported server ®le systems.

Using either the CHGNFSEXP or EXPORTFS command, you can add directory names from the /etc/exports ®le to the export table for export to remote clients.

You can also use these commands to dynamically export from the NFS server, bypassing the /etc/exports ®le.

A host system becomes an NFS server if it has ®le systems to export across the network. A server does not advertise these ®le systems to all network systems.

Rather, it keeps a list of options for exported ®le systems and associated access authorities and restrictions in a ®le,/etc/exports. The /etc/exports ®le is built into

the export table by the export command. The command reads the export options and applies them to the ®le systems to be exported at the time the command is used. Another way of exporting ®le systems is to do so individually with the ª-Iº

option of the export command. This command will not process any information stored in the /etc/exports ®le.

Figure 17. Exporting ®le systems with the /etc/exports ®le

© Copyright IBM Corp. 1997, 1999

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IBM AS/400E manual Server Exporting of File Systems, What is Exporting?
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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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