Lotus Domino Server R5 Implementation Guide

June 18, 2001

 

 

Other Workload Factors

Other factors that can impact the actual load that a given user community places on a Domino server include:

ŸThe extra overhead associated with a significant number of dial-up connections, such as mobile employees getting E-mail or suppliers accessing a supply chain automation application.

ŸThe extent to which applications access back-end data like relational databases and transaction monitor systems. As you might expect, the greater the number of network layers and connections involved, the greater the overhead.

ŸThe design of your applications. For guidelines on how to design efficient Web and intranet applications, see the Lotus white paper Maximizing Application and Server Performance in Domino (January, 1999).

B. Steps to Maximum Domino Performance

Performance monitoring and analysis tells you whether a server is up to the strain you're putting on it, or whether it's cracking under pressure. It can also help you find the limiting factor in a server configuration, as well as a bottleneck elsewhere in your network.

Monitoring and analyzing server performance is not easy. It can seem like more trouble than it's worth at times. But there simply is no substitute for it; in the long run, it will save you far more time and money than it costs. And you'll improve your network's efficiency and reliability in the bargain.

One key piece of advice transcends all others: Keep a "holistic" perspective on the process. Likely pitfalls in performance analysis are:

ŸBasing your analysis on a single performance metric.

ŸLooking for a single step that will solve all your problems. Factors that impact performance are interrelated. So there's almost always more than one move you'll need to make.

ŸMaking across-the-board decisions or recommendations. Each server or platform has unique workload characteristics, related to the databases on the server and what users are doing with them. These differences can be important.

Know the Configuration

Domino administrators should know the configuration of the servers they're supporting. The main components of any server are memory, CPU, and disk (both logical and physical). Things like onboard cache memory and the number of disk controllers are also important.

Here are additional tips that may help you find configuration-related problems faster:

ŸUse the fastest disks you can find (10,000 RPMs).

ŸUse hardware RAID over software RAID; it's faster and there's less CPU overhead.

ŸProcessor speed is important for indexing.

ŸAn adequate disk subsystem means lower memory requirements because fewer temporary I/O buffers are cluttering up your RAM.

ŸBeware of standard server configurations; they are not optimal for Domino servers. The most important thing missing is typically adequate disks and controllers. See your hardware vendor's NotesBench® data for guidelines. (In other words, configure your systems like the folks who ran the NotesBench tests configured theirs.) For more information, visit http://www.notesbench.org (registration required).

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IBM R5 manual Steps to Maximum Domino Performance, Other Workload Factors, Know the Configuration

R5 specifications

IBM R5, also known as IBM Notes R5, marked a significant evolution in the IBM Notes and Domino platform, offering users enhanced capabilities and features that improved productivity and collaboration in the workplace. Released in 1999, R5 introduced a more refined user interface, improved performance, and a range of new tools designed to facilitate communication and teamwork.

One of the standout features of IBM R5 was its comprehensive integration of email, calendaring, and tasks within a single interface. This centralized approach allowed users to manage their communications more efficiently, reducing the need to switch between multiple applications. The improved email functionality included enhanced filtering and sorting capabilities, enabling users to better organize their inboxes.

The R5 version also introduced significant advancements in the collaborative aspects of the platform. With new tools for team collaboration, such as enhanced discussion databases and a shared documents feature, R5 made it easier for teams to work together on projects irrespective of their physical locations. The introduction of instant messaging capabilities further bridged communication gaps, allowing users to connect in real time.

IBM R5 was built on a robust architecture that incorporated Domino server enhancements, which improved scalability and performance. The platform supported new technologies, including Java applets, allowing developers to build more dynamic and interactive applications. Additionally, the integration of the LDAP (Lightweight Directory Access Protocol) provided better directory services, making it simpler to manage user identities across the network.

Security features were also a focus in R5, with improvements in encryption and user authentication that helped safeguard sensitive data. The platform’s ability to integrate with other enterprise applications while maintaining robust security protocols made it a choice for organizations that prioritized data protection.

Moreover, IBM R5 incorporated a more modular and flexible architecture, enabling easier customization and management of applications and components. This adaptability catered to a wide range of business needs, thus positioning IBM Notes R5 as a versatile solution for organizations looking to enhance their workflow and communication processes.

Overall, IBM R5 served as a milestone in the evolution of enterprise collaboration solutions. Its innovative features, user-friendly interface, and robust security measures laid the foundation for future developments in the IBM Notes and Domino ecosystem, ultimately contributing to more efficient and effective business practices.