A method for administration through files in a storage cluster is provided. The method includes distributing user data, including files, throughout a plurality of storage nodes having non-volatile solid-state memory, through erasure coding. The plurality of storage nodes are housed within a single chassis that couples the storage nodes as the storage cluster. The method includes receiving at the storage cluster a command to write a file or read a file, the file having a filename. The method includes determining whether the filename is reserved and determining an administrative action according to the file, responsive to determining that the filename is reserved. The method includes initiating the administrative action. A storage system is also provided.