Slices
Understanding the fundamental unit of compute capacity in the ThreeFold ecosystem.
Overview
Slices represent the core unit of compute capacity within the ThreeFold Grid. They are standardized divisions of physical computing hardware (3Nodes) that can be allocated and managed as independent virtual resources. Slices form the foundation of all deployments on the ThreeFold Grid and serve as the primary unit of exchange for computational resources.
Key Concept
Slices abstract away the underlying physical infrastructure, providing a consistent and standardized way to measure, allocate, and exchange computing capacity across the entire ThreeFold Grid.
Slice Composition
Each slice is a bundle of computing resources that includes:
Compute (vCPU)
Processing power expressed as virtual CPU cores with specific performance characteristics.
Measured in compute units (CU)
Memory
RAM allocation for running applications and workloads with defined capacity.
Measured in memory units (MU)
Storage
Persistent data storage with specified capacity and performance characteristics.
Measured in storage units (SU)
Network
Bandwidth allocation for data transfer between the slice and other network points.
Measured in network units (NU)
Security Layer
Zero-OS secure runtime environment that ensures isolation and security.
Built into every slice
Management Layer
Tools and interfaces for monitoring and controlling the slice resources.
Accessible via API and dashboard
Slice Resource Units
ThreeFold uses standardized units to measure and quantify the resources in each slice:
| Resource Unit | Definition | Equivalent To |
|---|---|---|
| Compute Unit (CU) | Standardized measure of processing power | 2 virtual CPU cores with guaranteed performance |
| Memory Unit (MU) | Standardized measure of RAM capacity | 4 GB of RAM with dedicated allocation |
| Storage Unit (SU) | Standardized measure of storage capacity | 1 TB of SSD-equivalent storage space |
| Network Unit (NU) | Standardized measure of network transfer | 1 GB of data transfer capacity |
Resource Calculation
The system automatically calculates the appropriate number of resource units required for your specific workload based on your deployment specifications. You can use the Resource Calculator to estimate the required units for your use case.
Slice Types
The ThreeFold Grid offers different types of slices optimized for specific workloads:
General Purpose Slices
Balanced resources for standard workloads:
- Equal distribution of compute, memory, and storage
- Suitable for most applications and services
- Flexible configuration options
- Ideal for web servers, applications, and development environments
Compute-Optimized Slices
Enhanced processing power for compute-intensive tasks:
- Higher ratio of compute units to other resources
- Optimized for processor-heavy workloads
- Advanced CPU instruction set availability
- Ideal for data processing, rendering, and scientific calculations
Memory-Optimized Slices
Enhanced memory allocation for data-intensive applications:
- Higher ratio of memory units to other resources
- Optimized for applications requiring large RAM allocations
- High-speed memory access patterns
- Ideal for databases, caching layers, and in-memory analytics
Storage-Optimized Slices
Enhanced storage capacity for data-heavy workloads:
- Higher ratio of storage units to other resources
- Options for SSD or HDD-equivalent performance
- Optimized I/O performance characteristics
- Ideal for file servers, object storage, and backup systems
GPU Slices
Access to GPU resources for specialized workloads:
- Includes access to GPU computing resources
- Specialized for graphics and parallel computing
- Driver and toolkit support
- Ideal for AI/ML, rendering, and scientific computing
High-Performance Slices
Premium resources with maximum performance guarantees:
- Top-tier hardware allocations
- Guaranteed performance metrics
- Enhanced bandwidth and low latency
- Ideal for mission-critical applications and services
Resource Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate the resources needed for your workload:
Estimated Resources
Required Resource Units:
- Compute Units (CU): 1
- Memory Units (MU): 1
- Storage Units (SU): 0.05
- Network Units (NU): Varies based on usage
Recommended Slice Type:
General Purpose Slice (Small)
This recommendation is an estimate. Actual requirements may vary based on specific workload characteristics and usage patterns.
Managing Slices
The ThreeFold Marketplace provides several tools for managing your slices:
Slice Provisioning
Creating and allocating new slices:
- Marketplace Interface: Simple UI-based slice creation
- API Access: Programmatic slice provisioning
- Templates: Pre-configured slice specifications
- Custom Configuration: Tailored resource allocations
Monitoring & Scaling
Managing active slices:
- Performance Metrics: Real-time utilization data
- Scaling Options: Vertical and horizontal scaling
- Alerts: Customizable threshold notifications
- Usage Reports: Resource consumption analytics
Security & Access
Securing your slices:
- Access Controls: Granular permission settings
- Network Policies: Traffic management rules
- Encryption Options: Data-at-rest and in-transit protection
- Security Scanning: Vulnerability assessment
Lifecycle Management
Long-term slice administration:
- Backup Solutions: Data protection options
- Migration Tools: Moving workloads between slices
- Version Control: Configuration history and rollback
- Retirement Process: Secure decommissioning
TFP Exchange Mechanism
Slices are provisioned and managed through the ThreeFold Points (TFP) value exchange system:
Slice Economics
- Resource-Based Pricing: TFP cost calculated based on resource units allocated
- Time-Based Billing: Pay only for the duration slices are provisioned
- Optional Reservations: Discounted rates for long-term commitments
- Dynamic Allocation: Scale resources up or down as needed and pay accordingly
- Provider Selection: Different rates based on selected resource providers
Sample Cost Estimation
| Resource | Quantity | Unit Cost (TFP/month) | Total (TFP/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compute Units | 2 | 15 | 30 |
| Memory Units | 1 | 10 | 10 |
| Storage Units | 0.1 | 5 | 0.5 |
| Network Units | 100 | 0.1 | 10 |
| Total Monthly Cost | 50.5 TFP | ||
This is a sample estimation. Actual costs will vary based on specific resource requirements and provider rates.
Ready to Provision Slices?
Start exploring the available compute resources to find the perfect slice configuration for your needs.