The CDFII silicon detector consists of 8 layers of double-sided
silicon micro-strip sensors totaling 722,432 readout channels, making it one
of the largest silicon detectors in present use by an HEP experiment.  After
two years of data taking, we report on our experience operating the complex
device.  The performance of the CDFII silicon detector is presented and its
impact on physics analyses is discussed.  We have already observed
measurable effects from radiation damage.  These results and their impact on
the expected lifetime of the detector are briefly reviewed.