Tuning the NFS Server

When you first set up the NFS server, you need to tune it for optimal performance. Later, in response to a particular problem, you need to tune the server again to optimize performance.

Optimizing Performance

Follow these steps in sequence to improve the performance of your NFS server.

1. Measure the current level of performance for the network, server, and each client. See "Checking Network, Server, and Client Performance"" later in this chapter.

2. Analyze the gathered data by graphing it. Look for exceptions, high disk and CPU utilization, and high disk service times. Apply thresholds or performance rules to the data.

3. Tune the server. See Chapter 4, Configuring the Server and the Client to Maximize NFS Performance.

4. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 until you achieve the desired performance.

Resolving Performance Problems

Follow these steps in sequence to resolve performance problems with your NFS server.

1. Use tools then observe the symptoms to pinpoint the source of the problem.

2. Measure the current level of performance for the network, server, and each client. See "Checking Network, Server, and Client Performance"."

3. Analyze the data gathered by graphing the data. Look for exceptions, high disk and CPU utilization, and high disk service times. Apply thresholds or performance rules to the data.

4. Tune the server. See Chapter 4, Configuring the Server and the Client to Maximize NFS Performance.

5. Repeat Steps 1 through 4 until you achieve the desired performance.