Synopsis:
WinFS file server: Answers to Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Solution:
This information is for historical reference only. Please see kb.princeton.edu/9511 for information regarding departmental file sharing on the Central File Server.

In August of 2005 all WinFS files and folders were migrated to FILES, the University's new Central File Service for file storage. Below please find detailed information regarding the policy and procedure concerning departmental file services.

Why were all of the files and folders on WinFS migrated to FILES?
During 2004-2005, the Office of Information Technology made significant improvements in the disk systems that support file storage for individuals and departments. In August 2004, OIT rolled out new "Central File Services." The new Central File Services is like a gigantic hard drive in the 87 Prospect Avenue machine room. Rather than store critical documents on a local hard drive, faculty, students, and staff are encouraged to use the Central File Services space. The Central File Services data is backed up nightly, as well as on a periodic basis during the day ("snapshots"), and there is a secondary gigantic storage system located at the smaller New South machine room. This secondary unit is ready to take over should the 87 Prospect machine room become unavailable. You can think of the Central File Services disk as "disaster resistant" given the regular backups, snapshots, and secondary unit at New South.

By migrating all of the files and folders from WinFS to FILES, OIT is consolidating the number of servers needed for file storage. In addition, unlike the older WinFS system, the new Central File Services system can be expanded to accommodate greater file storage needs.

Will the WinFS name still work after the big migration on AUGUST 19-21, 2005?
Yes, the WinFS name will continue to work after the migration. OIT intends to continue to support the WinFS name through January 2007. However, starting August 22, 2005 everyone should start getting used to connecting to the Central File Services system using the name FILES.

What won't work after the migration from WinFS to FILES?
Like WinFS, the Central File Services system named FILES can be access from Windows-based workstations and Macintosh computers running Mac OS X. Unix workstations can also connect to FILES. Older Macintosh computers running Mac OS 9 or older operating systems will not be able to access files and folders stored on FILES.

As an individual, do I have access to file services?
Please see www.princeton.edu/files for more information about file services. The Central File Services system greatly simplifies file services for everyone.

How can a department obtain more quota?
If more file storage space is needed, a department manager or delegate can purchase additional space using a valid University project grant. The following Quota Request Online Form can be used to purchase additional disk space for departmental use. Additional quota, above the baseline amount, is charged at the current OIT disk storage rate. Please see Solution 4926 for current rates. Charging is processed monthly through Departmental Charges.

What types of computers can connect to WinFS?
WinFS can be used from any Windows 98/NT/2000/XP computer. Though the server has anti-virus software running at all times, we still strongly recommend workstations connecting to this resource be up-to-date on virus definitions and all Windows critical service packs and hotfixes. Viruses and other rogue programs can be transferred between workstations and the WinFS server.

If Macintosh computers are used within the department and need access to WinFS, they should be running Mac OS X to seamlessly connect to WinFS. Mac OS X workstations use a protocol called SMB to connect to WinFS. Like Windows workstations, Mac OS X computers should be running up-to-date virus protection software and have all current security patches from Apple.

For older Macs running OS 9, OIT recommends that the computer be upgraded to OS X if access to WinFS is needed.

Does OIT have a standard Service Level Agreement for WinFS?
Yes. WinFS is categorized as a 24x7 service. However, the server may be unavailable during OIT's standard outage periods for regular system maintenance. Currently, OIT's standard outage periods are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. during the weeks when academic classes are in session. OIT posts information about upcoming scheduled maintenance on the OIT Help Desk web page. Occasionally work cannot be completed in a standard 2-hour outage period and a longer outage will be scheduled. In the event of unexpected hardware or software failure, the server may become unavailable at other times.