Introduction

In the client/server model, a file server is a computer responsible for the central storage and management of data files so that other computers on the same network can access the files. A file server allows users to share information over a network without having to physically transfer files. Any computer can be configured to be a host and act as a file server. In its simplest form, a file server may be an ordinary PC that handles requests for files and sends them over the network. In a more sophisticated network, a file server might be a dedicated network-attached storage device that also serves as a remote hard disk drive for other computers, allowing anyone on the network to store files on it as if to their own hard drive.

The true indicator of the efficiency of a File server is the speed with which it serves concurrent file requests. If users are unable to access important files stored on the file server as and when they need due to a temperorary break in connection to the server or because of a long request queue, it might severely hamper the productivity of the users, and might unnecessarily delay critical operations. If such a problem situation is to be averted, the file server needs to be monitored, and administrators promptly warned about probable performance issues. eG Enterprise helps administrators in this regard.