Share one folder across apps — EFS and EC2

Your goal

Let two Linux app servers work with the same shared files.

Why this matters

Two copies of an app need the same uploads. You will choose a shared file system, allow the network path, and test access from both servers.

Words you will use

EFS is a managed network file system. Mounting makes it available as a folder. NFS is the network protocol used to reach it.

How to proceed

Read each situation and choose an answer. The lesson explains the result. Try again if needed, then continue through all three decisions and finish the tour.

1. Choose shared file storage

Two Linux servers need to open the same files through normal folder paths. Each server’s private disk would leave them with separate copies. Choose shared storage.

Which service fits?

Amazon EFS.

EFS provides a shared file system over the network. Both apps can mount it, which makes the shared files appear at a local folder path.

Both servers can be designed to use one shared file system.

Server A → EFS ← Server B

2. Allow the network path

The file system exists, but an app cannot mount it. EFS uses mount targets in your network and NFS traffic. Choose the setting to inspect.

Which check is useful?

Mount targets, routes, and allowed NFS traffic.

A mount target is a network entry point for the file system. Check reachability and security groups allowing the intended client traffic on NFS port 2049.

The plan provides the app a permitted path to the shared files.

App group → TCP 2049 → EFS mount target

3. Test both readers

Server A writes a test file, but Server B cannot read it. A network connection alone does not grant every file permission. Choose what to check next.

What helps explain the failure?

The mounted path and the file’s access permissions.

Check that both apps mounted the intended file system and folder. File ownership and permissions still matter. A shared folder does not mean every process may read everything.

Both apps are tested against the intended path and file permissions.

Write test file on A → read same path on B → inspect permissions

Practice, then check your understanding

In the interactive tour, make each decision before seeing the outcome. Wrong answers receive coaching, and replay gives you a fresh attempt without duplicating earned XP.

Read the official AWS documentation for service behavior and production details.