FAQ
- 19 Dec 2022
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FAQ
- Updated on 19 Dec 2022
- 2 Minutes to read
- Print
- DarkLight
Article summary
Object storage is a type of storage that allows users to store and retrieve various types of files through the internet. Servers Australia's object storage platform is S3 compatible, meaning it works with common tools like graphical application file managers, command line clients, and WordPress backup plugins. However, there are limitations to consider, such as a maximum object size of 5 GB and a maximum of 100 buckets. It is not recommended to use object storage as a filesystem or mounted device, as it hinders performance. Object storage has a cache feature that automatically stores frequently accessed objects on All Flash storage. There is a request limit of 500 requests per second per IP address, and if exceeded, errors may occur. Custom domain names are not supported for object storage, and access to files is private by default. Object storage billing is based on monthly usage of storage and outbound data transfer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between object storage and block storage?
Object storage offers an endpoint that runs through the internet to store and retrieve many types of files via HTTPS.
NOTE
Unlike Object storage, Block storage provides mountable disk volumes for VMware vSphere (ESXi) or Microsoft Hyper-V servers. Block storage is only available to Enterprise Dedicated Servers at this stage. Object storage can be used by anyone anywhere.
Is Servers Australia's Object Storage platform S3-compatible?
Our object storage is S3-compatible and works with the most common tools like below:
- Cyberduck is a graphical application file manager for Windows and Mac. It supports S3, FTP, and many popular file-sharing services.
- S3 Browser is free to use as a Microsoft Windows client for S3-compatible object storage.
- S3cmd is one of the most common command line S3 clients for Linux and Mac.
- UpdraftPlus is a WordPress backup plugin used by many around the world.
- Rclone is a command-line program to manage files on cloud storage.
What are the limitations?
Maximum Object Size: 5 GB
Maximum Buckets: 100
Contact us if you require more than 100 buckets.
Minimum Billable Object Size: 4 KB
While you may store files smaller than 4 KB, they will be billed as though they were 4 KB to accommodate for the additional metadata stored for each object. For example, 1000 * 1 KB files will use 1 MB of storage, but the actual utilised and billed storage will be 4 MB.
Can I use Object Storage as a filesystem?
Do not use object storage as a block device or mounted filesystem, we monitor for this type of usage and support will reach out if usage matches filesystem usage. Object Storage provides an S3-compatible API. The overhead of HTTPS calls massively hinders performance and we do not support this use. Always please use Block Storage for any mounted filesystems.
Does Object Storage have a cache?
Yes, our Object Storage caches frequently accessed objects on All-Flash storage. The cache is not controlled by end users or API.
Is there a request limit?
The rate limit also known as a request limit, is set to 500 requests per second per IP address. If you exceed this limit, your requests may receive one or more of the following errors in your application:
- HTTP 429: Too Many Requests
- HTTP 503: Service Unavailable
- HTTP 504: Gateway Timeout
If your applications require higher request volumes per second, we recommend deploying a caching proxy for performance and security in front of your object storage or other we encourage using a rate-limiting option in your software.
For example, if you encounter this issue, we recommend the following command line options as an example in rclone:
--tpslimit 100
Limit transactions per second to 100.
--transfers 1
This prevents parallel file transfers.
Can I use my own custom domain?
We do not support using your own white-labelled domain name for object storage. You must use the name shown for your object storage in the MySAU Portal
Can anyone access my files?
Objects (files) transferred to object storage buckets are set to private by default. You will need a secret key in our portal to access them. Most tools allow you to change permissions to make objects, files, and buckets public. You will have to refer to your tool's documentation and understand how it interacts with object storage.
How does Object Storage billing work?
Object storage is billed monthly in arrears based on your storage and outbound data transfer.
Storage:
Outbound Data Transfer:
The price per GB is calculated based on total monthly usage.
For example, 12 TB of storage and 4 TB of outbound transfer would be $320.
(12000 * 0.02) + (4000 * 0.02) = $320.
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