Understanding the Use of Java Service Wrapper in Symantec VIP Enterprise Gateway

Products

• VIP Service

Issue/Introduction

The Java Service Wrapper (JSW) is a necessary component of the Symantec VIP Enterprise Gateway. Removing it from the server will prevent critical components from functioning properly and may compromise the stability and reliability of authentication services.

Environment

Symantec VIP Enterprise Gateway

Resolution

The Java Service Wrapper is an essential component in the Symantec VIP Enterprise Gateway. It is responsible for managing the lifecycle of Java applications within the Gateway and ensures the stability and reliability of VIP services. JSW provides key functionalities critical to the performance and continuous operation of the VIP Enterprise Gateway:

1. Enhanced Reliability:

   • The Java Service Wrapper automatically restarts the VIP Enterprise Gateway in case of unexpected shutdowns, ensuring uninterrupted authentication services.
   • Example location: "C:\Program Files\Symantec\VIP_Enterprise_Gateway\server\bin\Wrapper.exe" -s "C:\Program Files\Symantec\VIP_Enterprise_Gateway\server\bin\wrapper.conf" "wrapper.ntservice.description=Portal for configuring VIP Enterprise Gateway." "wrapper.ntservice.displayname=Symantec VIP Enterprise Gateway"

2. Performance Monitoring:

   • JSW actively monitors resource usage (e.g., memory, CPU) of the VIP Enterprise Gateway to prevent the system from being overwhelmed, which could degrade performance.

3. Simplified Maintenance:

   • JSW provides a streamlined process to start, stop, and restart the VIP Enterprise Gateway services, simplifying routine maintenance and configuration adjustments.

Resolution

The Java Service Wrapper is integral to the Symantec VIP Enterprise Gateway's functionality. Removing JSW may cause instability, unexpected shutdowns, and hinder the Gateway’s ability to automatically recover from faults, compromising the availability of authentication services.

Recommendation: We advise retaining JSW on any systems running the VIP Enterprise Gateway to maintain seamless and reliable authentication for end-users. Removing it could significantly impact service stability and system performance.