iFileshare

iFileshare (integrated Fileshare) is an enhanced version of Fileshare that runs under the control of an Enterprise Server region, where it can take advantage of its SYNCPOINT capabilities. You can configure iFileshare in its own Enterprise Server region, or you can add the capability to an existing Enterprise Server region. This configuration should replace your stand-alone Fileshare configuration.

As well as an iFileshare server running in single mode (i.e. just the one server), you can create a high availability group (also referred to as HA-VSAM). A high availability group consists of a primary iFileshare server and one or more standby servers. Data files under the control of the primary iFileshare server are replicated to all standby servers. In the event of your primary server failing, you have an up-to-date copy (minus any in-flight transactions) of your data files, and so one of the standby servers can assume the role of primary server; this process can occur automatically, or be performed manually.

Using these new Fileshare configurations, instead of a standalone Fileshare configuration, gives you the following benefits:

Control

Control and monitoring of the iFileshare process is driven through ESMAC, which centralizes the control of the Fileshare process within Enterprise Server Administration.

Performance

Scheduling of work for iFileshare is handled by Enterprise Server rather than relying on the network protocol scheduling that a standalone Fileshare uses; the benefit is a more scalable solution that is able to cope with heavier loads more efficiently.

Security

User authentication at log-on is handled by Enterprise Server-provided security, and not Fileshare's own security modules.

Note: Long usernames and passwords are now supported when using Fileshare with Enterprise Server or integrated Fileshare. See Long Usernames and Passwords for more information.

Recoverability

Using iFileshare opens up the opportunity to use Micro Focus' High Availability configuration, which provides failover support for files critical to your application.