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Can ONTAP CIFS volumes be used as database storage for RDB or NoSQL workloads?

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ontap-9
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Applies to

ONTAP 9

Answer

  • The actual feasibility and supportability depend on the database product design, access method, and vendor requirements.
  • ONTAP itself does not define or restrict whether CIFS storage can be used for database workloads.
  • ONTAP operates as a standard CIFS (SMB) file server and provides file-level access.
  • The suitability and supportability depend on:
    • Database architecture and access model
    • File system and locking requirements
    • Database vendor support policy
  • Using CIFS volumes directly for database files
    • CIFS provides file I/O access, not block level access.
    • Many enterprise databases are designed for block access using SAN LUNs.
    • Some database workloads may not be suitable for direct placement on CIFS volumes.
    • Examples of potentially unsuitable workload characteristics:
      • High frequency random write operations
      • Strict or low latency file locking requirements
      • Exclusive access or strong transactional consistency assumptions
    • Note:
      • These limitations are not imposed by ONTAP.
      • Feasibility depends on the database implementation.
      • This applies to both relational and NoSQL databases.
  • For official support status, confirmation with the database vendor documentation and support policy is required.

Additional Information

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