Modeling distributed file systems

Abstract

This paper describes different methods and techniques used to model, analyze, evaluate and implement distributed file systems. Distributed file systems are characterized by the distributed system hardware and software architecture, in which they are implemented as well as by the file systems' functions. In addition, distributed file system performance depends on the load executed in the system. Modeling and analysis of distributed file systems requires new methods to approximate complexity of the system and to provide a useful solution. The complexity of the distributed file system is reflected in the possible placement of the files, file replication, and migration of files and processes. The synchronization mechanisms are needed to control file access. File sharing involves load sharing in distributed environment.