Chapter 5. Client Mounting of File Systems

The mount command places the remote ®le system over a local directory on an NFS client. After exporting, mounting a ®le system is the second major step in setting up a ªtransparentº relationship between client and server.

Mounting allows clients to actually make use of the various ®le systems that the server has exported. Clients can use the mount command to map an exported ®le system over all or just part of a local ®le system. This action occurs so seamlessly that local applications will probably not distinguish between ®le systems mounted from a remote server and ®le systems existing locally. Multiple clients can mount and work with a single or multiple ®le systems at the same time.

Once ®le systems have been exported from a remote server, clients can then mount these accessible ®le systems and make them a part of their local namespace. Clients can dynamically mount and unmount all or part of exported server ®le systems. Once a client has mounted a ®le system onto its own local namespace, any local ®le system information below the mount point will be ªcovered up.º This renders the ªcoveredº or ªhiddenº ®le system inaccessible until the remote ®le system is unmounted.

What Is Mounting?

Mounting is a client-side operation that gives the local client access to remote

server ®le systems. The mount command does not copy the ®le systems over to the client. Rather, it makes the remote ®le systems appear as if they physically exist on the client. In reality, the ®le systems exist only on the server and the client is only accessing them. The interface, however, is designed to give the impression that the mounted ®le systems are local. In most cases, neither applications nor users can tell the difference.

Figure 30. A local client and remote server with exported ®le systems

© Copyright IBM Corp. 1997, 1999

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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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