In a networked environment, users need access to the same information on every host. Keeping an up-to-date copy of every file you need on each computer would be an impossible task.
The Network File System (NFS) allows users to inspect and modify remotely stored files. Every host on the network can use a single server's file space for home directories. No matter which host you work from, you appear to log in to the same "machine."
After completing this module, you will be able to:
- Describe the NFS
- Define and explain Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
- Use the
mount command to access NFS shares
- Use
/etc/fstab to automate the NFS client-side mounts
The next lesson describes the Network File System (NFS).
which allows a server to share directories and files with clients over a network. With NFS, users and programs can access files on remote systems as if they were stored locally. NFS has many practical uses. Some of the more common uses include:
- Data that would otherwise be duplicated on each client can be kept in a single location and accessed by clients on the network.
- Several clients may need access to the /usr/ports/distfiles directory. Sharing that directory allows for quick access to the source files without having to download them to each client.
- On large networks, it is often more convenient to configure a central NFS server on which all user home directories are stored. Users can log into a client anywhere on the network and have access to their home directories.
- Administration of NFS exports is simplified. For example, there is only one file system where security or backup policies must be set.
- Removable media storage devices can be used by other machines on the network. This reduces the number of devices throughout the network and provides a centralized location to manage their security.
It is often more convenient to install software on multiple machines from a centralized installation media.
NFS consists of a server and one or more clients. The client remotely accesses the data that is stored on the server machine. In order for this to function properly, a few processes have to be configured and running.