What is Amazon FSx for Windows File Server?
Amazon FSx for Windows File Server is a fully managed service that provides Windows-native file shares in the AWS cloud. The service is built on Windows Server and offers full compatibility with the SMB protocol, NTFS file system, and Active Directory integration.
Existing Windows applications and workflows that use file shares can be migrated to FSx for Windows File Server without modifications. The service handles patching, backup, and high availability automatically.
Core Features
- Windows-Native Compatibility: SMB 2.0 to 3.1.1, NTFS, ACLs, and DFS Namespaces
- Active Directory Integration: Seamless authentication with AWS Managed AD or on-premises AD
- Multi-AZ Deployment: Synchronous replication with automatic failover for high availability
- Automatic Backups: Daily backups with configurable retention period
- Data Deduplication: Windows-native deduplication reduces storage costs by up to 80%
Typical Use Cases
Home Directories: Central user directories for Windows desktops and WorkSpaces. Active Directory integration enables familiar permission management through groups and ACLs.
.NET Applications: .NET applications that use SMB file shares for configuration, logs, or shared data work without changes with FSx for Windows File Server.
SQL Server Storage: SQL Server uses FSx for Windows File Server for database files, backups, and Always On Availability Groups with continuously available SMB shares.
Benefits
- Fully Windows-native compatibility without compromises
- Active Directory integration for familiar access control
- Multi-AZ with automatic failover for 99.99% availability
- Automatic backups and deduplication included
Integration with innFactory
As an AWS Reseller, innFactory supports you with Amazon FSx for Windows File Server: file server migration, Active Directory integration, Multi-AZ architecture, and DFS namespace configuration.
Typical Use Cases
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Amazon FSx for Windows File Server?
Amazon FSx for Windows File Server is a fully managed Windows-native file storage built on Windows Server. It provides SMB protocol, NTFS, Active Directory integration, and DFS Namespaces without having to operate your own file servers.
Do I need an Active Directory?
Yes, FSx for Windows File Server requires an Active Directory for authentication and access control. You can use AWS Managed Microsoft AD, an AD Connector to on-premises AD, or a self-managed AD.
How does Multi-AZ deployment work?
Multi-AZ file systems replicate data synchronously to a second Availability Zone with automatic failover. During an AZ outage, access is automatically redirected to the standby instance without interruption for applications.