OpenFiler Installation Guide: Complete Setup Tutorial
Learn to install OpenFiler 2.3 on virtual machines with proper storage configuration and web management setup
OpenFiler is a powerful, feature-rich storage system that integrates seamlessly with Active Directory and LDAP. Supporting multiple protocols including NFS, iSCSI, and SMB, it offers advanced features like snapshots, replication, and high availability. This comprehensive guide walks you through installing OpenFiler 2.3 on a virtual machine, from initial setup to web-based management configuration.
Available in both Community (free) and Commercial versions, OpenFiler provides enterprise-grade storage solutions suitable for businesses requiring reliable, scalable storage infrastructure with professional support options.
Prerequisites and System Requirements
System Requirements
- Virtual machine with minimum 1 GB RAM
- Two virtual hard drives (one for OS, one for storage)
- Network connectivity for web management
- Downloaded OpenFiler 2.3 ISO file
Before beginning installation, ensure your virtual machine environment meets these minimum requirements. For production deployments, consider the commercial version which includes professional support to avoid potential issues in critical environments.
Download OpenFiler from the official community download page. You can choose between the ISO installer or pre-configured virtual appliance, though this guide focuses on the complete installation process.
Virtual Machine Setup
Create your virtual machine with proper specifications for OpenFiler. If you need guidance on virtual machine creation, refer to our VirtualBox tutorial.
VM Configuration Steps
- Mount the OpenFiler ISO to your virtual machine
- Allocate minimum 1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended)
- Create two virtual hard drives
- Configure network settings for management access
- Power on the virtual machine
Important: Second Drive Configuration
During partitioning, you must uncheck the box next to the second drive (sdb). Failing to do this will prevent you from creating storage volumes later during configuration.
OpenFiler Installation Process
Follow these detailed steps to complete the OpenFiler installation. The process is straightforward but requires attention to specific configuration details.
Initial Boot and Setup
- Press Enter to enter graphical installation mode
- Select “Skip” to bypass media test (recommended for virtual environments)
- Click “Next” to begin installation wizard
- Select your preferred language
- Choose “Automatically partition” and click Next
- Confirm partition creation by clicking “Yes”
- Uncheck the box next to the second drive (sdb)
- Continue with Next through disk setup screens
Network Configuration
Configure network settings for web-based management access. While DHCP is acceptable, static IP addressing is recommended for production environments.
- Specify IP address, subnet mask, and gateway appropriate for your network
- Assign a descriptive hostname (e.g., openfiler.yourdomain.net)
- Select appropriate timezone
- Set a secure root password and document it safely
- Complete final installation steps
The installation process will partition drives and install the system. After completion, reboot when prompted. The system will display the management URL upon startup.
Web Management Interface Access
After installation and reboot, OpenFiler displays the management URL and IP address. Access the web interface to complete initial configuration and storage setup.
Default Login Credentials
Username: openfiler
Password: password
Security Notice
Change default credentials immediately after first login. The default username/password combination poses a significant security risk in production environments.
Once logged in, familiarize yourself with the interface before proceeding to storage configuration. For detailed configuration instructions, refer to our comprehensive OpenFiler configuration tutorial.
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