Need to transfer uploaded files from one server to another

[uwilliams]

I am currently working on a project (Support side), using JBoss4.0.1sp1. One of the functions is for outside providers to upload images of their offerings. Obviously in a load balanced environment, the files will go to one server.

Because of this, the interface the outside providers use will point to a specific master of the clustered servers. The images will be stored in a files-system.

What I would like to know is what would be a good way to make sure that the images that have been uploaded, are distributed to the other servers.

I am a newbie to JBoss and J2EE so any help would be appreciated.

[geertvds]

you are looking for replication methods,
but wouldn't it be better to just share 1 filesystem with all the machines in the cluster (like a samba share, or a NFS share ?)
of course you can also just store your files in the database...

[uwilliams]

Unfortunately, due to cost and time constraints a DB is not considered. (although it may come into action later with growth)

Also JBoss will be on SuSE Linux and natively it does not share filesystems easily. Stuff like SAN or NAS are also not considered because of cost.

So basically yes, I need an easy way to do replication to another server.

My understanding is that the upload will be handled by a J2EE process (MBean?). As I have not seem the application yet this is a guess. However, JBoss will be handling the upload. Is there a way I can intercept that process, see when it is finished and automaticall copy to the other server?

[geertvds]

Also JBoss will be on SuSE Linux and natively it does not share filesystems easily.

Just install the suse samba packages and set up a samba share.

What you could also do is put an 'rsync' in your crontab and synchronize the two directories every once in a while.
however, I would suggest that you don't duplicate data when it is not really necessary...

[uwilliams]

will try that, Thank you.