1.1 Network Overview

A ClearCase administrator has three principal concerns:

• ClearCase hosts. ClearCase can be installed and used on any number of hosts in a network. Different hosts use ClearCase software in different ways. For example, one host may be used only to store version-controlled data; another may be used only to run ClearCase software development tools.

• ClearCase data storage. ClearCase data is stored in versioned object bases (VOBs) and views, which can be located on any host where ClearCase is installed. A VOB or view hosted on UNIX can have auxiliary data storage on other UNIX hosts where ClearCase is not installed; such storage is accessed through UNIX symbolic links, which are not a feature of Windows. It is also possible to locate VOB or view storage on certain Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices.

For many organizations, the set of all VOBs constitutes a central data repository, which you may need to administer as a unit. Most views are created and used by individuals; however, it is likely that one or more shared views will be created, requiring some central administration.

• ClearCase users. ClearCase users are identified by the user name and group memberships established when they log on to either UNIX or Windows. Any number of people can use ClearCase on any number of hosts; the floating license scheme limits the number of concurrent users, but not the number of hosts.