Provide User Storage to Researchers across Windows and Linux VMs

[daltskin]

As a Workspace User I want a storage area for my sole use, mounted into my virtual machine, so that I have my own space to work in.

Note:
Although this storage needs to be workspace specific it does not need to be private to the user, as the workspace is the security boundary. Although private storage for each user within a workspace has been discussed with users, after discussion it has been deemed not appropriate.

Acceptance criteria:

• Per user storage available in home directory of Windows VMs
• Per user storage available in home directory of Linux VMs

Open to suggestions as to what "home directory" means, and as to what is appropriate.

[martinpeck]

@marrobi to add a little more detail to this

[martinpeck]

@marrobi is this an accurate reading of the requirements...?

1. Researchers, within a workspace, should be given a folder that is clearly "theirs". e.g. the folder name is based upon their username, or the folder is their home folder, or something similar. In my case, that folder might be named martinpeck
2. This folder should be present when they first attach to a VM within a workspace
3. This folder is shared across all VMs within that workspace
4. This folder is shared across Windows and Linux VMs within that workspace
5. Other users within the workspace have their own folders
6. Other users within the workspace might be able to traverse the filesystem and see the contents of another user's folder. Once in another user's folder, that user can manipulate (create/read/update/delete) files.
7. These user folders are not shared across workspaces

[martinpeck]

sorry...should have numbered that list to make it easier to discuss (done)

[marrobi]

Correct, add to no 3 - "shared across all their VMs"

[marrobi]

On the file system previously used a users object id as the azure file share name.

[ross-p-smith]

I'm assuming that a user does not know their objectid though? Do you mean their AAD objectid

[tamirkamara]

If we mount the same shared storage to each VM, can't users create their own folder structure there?

[martinpeck]

I agree @tamirkamara. If they have shared storage, the folder structure they create (whether it be based upon usernames or otherwise) is up to them.

@marrobi other than the convenience of knowing "when I join a workspace I can assume there's a folder with my name on it" is there some other reason we need to do this?

[marrobi]

Two scenarios that need covering. Although wouldn't priotise this, has been asked for, but not a blocker.

1. I do some work on a VM. I store that work in my home folder. I resize that VM. I lose my work. Hence some shared storage should be mounted to the common profile directories - home and desktop spring to mind.

2. Although data does not need to be secured privately, I want to have my own space where it is not easy for other users to move/delete my files.

First one is more pressing as think it will be an issue before long.