Desktop Services
DS-Filestore CIFS Service
Accessing your DS filespace with the DS-Filestore CIFS service
Note: In mid-September 2011 there were significant changes to the Desktop Service Filestore. The main consequence for CIFS users is that the pathname to be used has changed. Details are in the relevant sections.
For technical reasons users of non-MCS Macs should not attempt to connect to the filestore using CIFS (SMB). The instructions linked below use AFP, which is currently the only permitted method.
The CIFS service allows you to use your Desktop Services personal filespace (or Society filespaces) directly from a non-MCS machine (Windows or Linux). Mac users should not use CIFS (SMB) but instead use AFP; for instructions follow the links below.
CIFS or AFP provides a convenient alternative to NetStorage (URL), or to FTP access, but is currently limited to machines within the Cambridge University Data Network (VPDN access has not yet been fully tested, and is not currently supported). It is particularly useful for Windows Vista since WebDAV access via NetStorage is currently not possible. Note that CIFS should not be used from a machine with a Novell client installed (i.e. a Managed Cluster machine or a non-MCS machine with Windows Client Service for Netware, or the Novell Client installed).
When you have successfully set up your CIFS connection, your DS filespace will appear as just another network device (like your CD drive or local hard disk), and can be used in exactly the same way as any local filing system.
What is CIFS?
The Common Internet File System (CIFS) is also known as SMB/Samba. It provides native file access to shared network resources. Novell's implementation of CIFS enables Windows and Linux systems outside the MCS to access the Desktop Services filestore. See wikipedia for a detailed explanation of CIFS.
Making a Connection
Please click on the relevant link