A comprehensive look at the principles, functionality, and implementations of UNIX and Linux(r) filesystems

Every aspect of a network-storage, file transfers, backup-depends on the filesystem for structure, functionality, and integrity. Surprisingly, UNIX-the operating system of choice for mission-critical networks-has historically had little documentation on its filesystem structures. Written by Steve Pate, a sen-ior member of the VERITAS Filesystems Group, this book sheds light on the inner workings of UNIX filesystems and gives you the know-how to fine-tune your UNIX filesystems for optimal performance. Pate also provides a complete implementation of the System V filesystem on Linux, as well as instructions on how to build, install, and analyze it.

In addition to the author's comprehensive and practical coverage of all aspects of filesystems, this book:

* Covers the commands and implementations of all major versions of UNIX and Linux filesystems

* Includes case studies of three real-world implementations of the VERITAS Filesystem (VxFS), the Unix File System (UFS), and the Linux-based ext2 and ext3 filesystems

* Describes backup techniques, archiving tools, and frozen image techniques used to create stable backups

* Details how to build distributed and clustered filesystems using Storage Area Networks

Wiley Technology Publishing has teamed with VERITAS Software Corporation to deliver a series of books for the enterprise storage management community. These titles will provide system and network administrators, server application developers, and storage engineers with in-depth, hands-on information on how to build scalable, quick, and highly available storage area networks. Key books in the series, including this one, are designed to help CIOs make the decisions as to when and how to embark on investing in new technology.

The companion Web site includes all of the code for the databases included in this book.

A file system is the way an operating system keeps tracks of its files. Though operating systems provide their own file management systems, the practice is to buy separate file management systems that interact smoothly with the operating system but provide more features such as improved backup procedures and stricter file protection. This book is the first of its kind to cover all versions of UNIX and Linux file-systems.

Includes bibliographical references (p. 425-428) and index.

STEVE D. PATE is a senior manager and long time contributor to the VERITAS Filesystems Group. For the last fifteen years, he has been involved in the design and development of operating systems for numerous versions of UNIX and microkernel-based implementations of UNIX.