Using the DIRAC framework within the GRIDIFIN training infrastructure

Abstract

The DIRAC framework (Distributed Infrastructure with Remote Agent Control, [1]) has recently been implemented within the GRIDIFIN site at IFIN-HH/DFCTI [2]. Although intended to become a single access point to heterogeneous computing resources such as grids, HPC clusters and clouds within the Romanian National Grid Infrastructure (NGI-RO, [3]), the local instance of DIRAC was firstly used for the training of the end users. As training tool, DIRAC offers multiple advantages compared to the standard EMI user interface (UI), like its user-friendly job management portal and the absence of the requirement of EMI middleware installation on the DIRAC client. At GRIDIFIN the trainees have the opportunity to submit their test jobs in a multi-disciplinary environment, on the ronbio.ro, gridifin.ro or eli-np.eu virtual organizations (VOs), which are supported by the site. They can also compare the job handling efficiencies of the EMI and DIRAC workload management systems (WMSes) and report statistics regarding their activities. The user training experience provides valuable information for the future adaptation of the DIRAC framework to the running of WLCG preproduction tests.