AppleShare File Server runs in about 1MB of RAM. Any memory beyond this 1MB is given to RAM cache, to cache directory structures, user data files, and so on. Thus, in a 2MB machine, 1MB will be used for caching. As cache size increases, more of the disk directory can be maintained in memory. This results in fewer disk accesses and faster response. Users' data files are also maintained in cache when there is room. This is effective with multi-user applications when several users access the same data file.
In general, 1MB of cache memory is quite adequate. Any more memory beyond this will not buy you much -- and can degrade performance, as you were told. This is why you did not see the difference between a 3MB and a 5MB machine.
For a File Server only, 1MB to 2MB memory is recommended. A 1MB Macintosh server can support 25 concurrent users. A 2MB Macintosh II can support 50 concurrent users.
To run the AppleShare File Server with the Internet Router or the AppleShare Print Server, or both, the minimum memory requirement is 2MB. You should run about 4MB to achieve better performance.
For more information about memory requirement when running the Internet Router with the File Server and the AppleShare Print Server, search the Tech Info Library using keywords "Internet Router" and "memory".
Article Change History:
21 Aug 1995 - Change title to reflect the subject.
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