Scratch filesystem /scratch
All CSCS HPC platforms have a scratch filesystem accessible at /scratch/machine_name/user_name as a fast workspace for temporary storage. The emphasis is placed on performance rather than reliability. There are no quotas enforced on /scratch, however we have a cleaning policy in place. All files older than 30 days are deleted, the script runs every Sunday or whenever the /scrach disk space exceeds 60% so please ensure that you do not target this as a long term storage.
Data stored on /scratch are NOT backed up. Users are advised to copy valuable data to the /project filesystem. Please, do not use "touch jobs" to prevent the cleaning policy, because this deprives the community of a shared resource.
Access to the shared storage /project is also available through the high speed interconnect. For further information regarding transfer of large amount of data, please have a look at the list of FAQ on Data Management or contact us help@cscs.ch for specific requests.