Resolving file system problems

About this section

This section describes problems you might encounter with the file system and explains how to correct these problems.

When the file system is inconsistent

The file system rarely becomes inconsistent. However, an inconsistent file system can be a result of combined disk and NVRAM failure, or a problem with a newly installed kernel.

If your file system becomes inconsistent, the NetCache appliance displays a message about the problem. Contact Network Appliance Technical Support for assistance, as described in Section G, Contacting Network Appliance Technical Support.

When a file system must be reinstalled

You might need to install a new file system after a fatal error or if two disks fail at or close to the same time.

Note
After you install a new file system, you must also reinstall the NetCache software. The NetCache software is shipped with your system on CD-ROM. If an upgrade is available, you can download it from the Network Appliance NOW site (http://now.netapp.com/).

How to install a new file system

To install a new file system on the NetCache appliance, complete the following steps.

Step	Action
1	Insert the first system boot diskette followed by the remaining diskettes into the disk drive as the system prompts you. After the NetCache appliance boots, the console will display the following menu: 1) Normal Boot 2) Boot without starting system devices 3) Change Password 4) Initialize all disks 5) Maintenance mode boot `Selection (1-5)?`
2	Type `4` and press Enter. The following prompts are displayed on the console: `WARNING: there appear to be valid labels on the disks!` `Zero disks and install a new file system?`
3	Type `y` and press Enter. The following prompt is displayed on the console: `This will erase all the data on the disks, are you sure?`
4	Type `y` and press Enter. The following message is displayed on the console: `Zeroing disks: takes approximately xx minutes.` where `xx` is the number of minutes displayed depending on your system. `A disk can be reserved and designated as a "hot spare" which will be used to automatically replace another disk should a disk fail in your configuration. Note that the spare disk will be reserved and will not be used for your file system.` `Reserve a disk for use as a "hot spare"?`
5	(Optional) Type `y` and press Enter. The following message is displayed on the console: `"Hot spare" disk 0 reserved.`