DevOps Code ClearCase and network-attached storage devices

Any network-attached storage (NAS) device can provide storage for ordinary files that are created and used by DevOps Code ClearCase® (release areas, for example, or the remote storage pools supported by DevOps Code ClearCase hosts running Linux or the UNIX system). In addition, several NAS devices can provide storage, when properly configured and used, for all VOB and view storage.

NAS devices provide data storage resources to other hosts on a local area network by using a network file system protocol such as the Network File System (NFS) on Linux or the UNIX system, or on the Common Internet File System (CIFS) on Windows®. Putting view and (especially) VOB storage on a supported NAS device can provide several advantages:
  • Enhanced scalability. VOB or view storage can grow well beyond the physical limits typically imposed when the VOB or view is stored on a DevOps Code ClearCase server host.
  • Enhanced flexibility. Separating the server host from its VOB or view storage simplifies the process of upgrading the server host.
  • Simplified administration. NAS devices often have enhanced backup and restore features that can simplify backing up and restoring VOBs and views. When you use the mkstgloc command to create server storage locations on NAS devices, you can simplify VOB and view creation and administration further.
  • Simplified interoperation. Most NAS devices can be configured to support interoperation among DevOps Code ClearCase hosts that run different supported operating systems. You do not need to install additional cross-platform file-access software on DevOps Code ClearCase client or server hosts if you are using a NAS device to provide VOB and view storage for a mixed network of DevOps Code ClearCase computers that run different supported operating systems. For more information, see Cross-platform file-system access.
Note: For an explanation of the ClearCase NAS support policy, see technote 272409.

Every NAS device must be configured to support remote VOB or view databases. Configuration requirements for each device are described in the online DevOps Code ClearCase Platforms Guide. If you do not configure a NAS device as described in that document, any VOB or view data stored on that device is at risk. In some cases, using a NAS device for VOB or view storage can degrade DevOps Code ClearCase performance. For more information, see Server performance and NAS devices.

Special procedures might be required when creating, moving, backing up, or restoring VOBs and views on NAS devices. For more information, see Backing up critical DevOps Code ClearCase data and Restoring critical DevOps Code ClearCase data.