Setting the Open File Limit (Linux/Unix)

FlexNet Code Insight 6.14.0

This procedure specifies the open-file limit on Linux or Unix platforms.

The open-file limit is a setting that controls the maximum number of open files for individual users (such as non-root users). The default open-file limit is typically 1024. However, in order for FlexNet Code Insight to function properly in a Linux or Unix environment, the open-file limit must be set to handle more than 50K files on each instance hosting the Core Server or a Scan Server.

Important • Increasing the open-file size is essential for ensuring that FlexNet Code Insight functions properly on Unix or Linux platforms.You can choose to perform this task before or after the application is installed; however, make sure to perform this step before launching the application.

The following procedure is verified for Fedora Core4 and can vary based on the OS/Linux Distribution. The procedure assumes that you are using the Bourne Shell (sh), Bourne Again Shell (bash), or Korn Shell (ksh). Note the following:

If you are using C Shell (csh) or Tenex C Shell (tcsh), use the limit openfiles NNNN syntax instead of the ulimit -n NNNN syntax.
Some limitations exist when using tcsh. For example, the tcsh shell only sets the soft-limit; you cannot set a hard-limit. This limitation is undesirable in some situations.

To specify the open-file limit in Linux/Unix:

1. Check the current value with the ulimit -a command. The system lists all settings. The Open Files setting (-n) will probably be set to the default of 1024 as shown below.

2. Open /etc/security/limits.conf (if running Fedora Core 4 or higher) or /etc/sysctl.conf (if running Red Hat 6.5 or higher) and add the following entries:

soft nofile 65536

hard nofile 65536

Note • Other distributions might require a different set up.

Tip • On some systems, it might be necessary to add ulimit -n 16384 to the source file (such as .profile, .bashrc, or .bash_profile) to ensure the change is applied.

3. Log off, and then login again.
4. Check to make sure the new value is reflected by entering ulimit -a. The system will re-list all of the settings. The open files setting (-n) is set to 16384.