CIFS & NFS are basically protocols used for enabling remote communication system. Let us see what both exactly stands for before drawing a comparison of CIFS vs NFS.
What is CIFS?
CIFS is an abbreviation for “Common Internet File System” used by Windows operating systems for file sharing. CIFS also uses the client-server methodology where A client makes a request of a server program for accessing a file. The server takes the requested action and returns a response. CIFS is an open standard version of the Server Message Block Protocol (SMB) developed and used by Microsoft and it uses the TCP/IP protocol.
Related – CIFS Protocol
What is NFS?
NFS is the “Network File System” specifically used for Unix and Linux operating systems. It allows files communication transparently between servers and end-users machines like desktops & laptops. NFS uses a client-server methodology to allow the user to view read and write files on a computer system. A user can mount all or a portion of a file system via NFS.
CIFS vs NFS – Difference :
CIFS and NFS are the primary file systems used in NAS storage. A file system can be exported over both the CIFS and NFS protocols.
Both the CIFS and NFS protocol can be set with reading and write permissions. CIFS tends to be a bit more “chatty” in its communications. While both use the client/server programming model for communication, CIFS and NFS differ in following enlisted ways –
Comparison Table –
| PARAMETER | CIFS | NFS |
|---|---|---|
| Full form | Common Internet File System | Network File System |
| Port numbers/protocol | UDP ports 137 and 138 and TCP ports 139 and 445. | NFS server - Port 111 (TCP and UDP) 2049 (TCP and UDP). Cluster and client status (Port 1110 TCP and 1110 UDP) NFS lock manager (Port 4045 TCP and UDP). |
| Behavior | Chatty in communications. | Less chatty than CIFS |
| Usage | If most of your clients are Windows based, go with CIFS | If most of your clients are non-Windows based like LINUX etc. , NFS is the preferred method |
| Session requirement | Yes | No |
| Security | More secured than NFS. Provides some security features | Not a secure protocol |
| Scalability | Low scalability | Highly scalable |
| Communication speed | Medium | Fast |
| Implementation | Complex implementation compared to NFS | Easy to setup |
Download the difference table here.
Continue Reading:
NAS – NETWORK ATTACHED STORAGE
Watch this video to know more about NFS vs CIFS –
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I am here to share my knowledge and experience in the field of networking with the goal being – “The more you share, the more you learn.”
I am a biotechnologist by qualification and a Network Enthusiast by interest. I developed interest in networking being in the company of a passionate Network Professional, my husband.
I am a strong believer of the fact that “learning is a constant process of discovering yourself.”
– Rashmi Bhardwaj (Author/Editor)
