Server Clustering
A cluster is a group of two or more individual servers, called nodes, which work together and present themselves to the network as a single server. The servers in a cluster are both physically connected, so they can coordinate communication in response to client requests. Each server in a cluster is able to provide redundant operations in the event of a hardware or application failure. As a result, the cluster provides a high degree of availability for applications and resources.
Embrionic and Clustering
Embrionic has been involved in clustered solutions for applications such as Microsoft Exchange and SQL Server 2000 since the release of Windows Server 2000. We have designed, configured and supported such solutions. Using this experience we have generated checklists to ensure your clustered solution is configured in line with Microsoft recommended practices.
Microsoft supports hardware for Windows Server 2003 clusters only if it has passed the Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) test for the Windows Server 2003 family.
Windows Support for Clustering
Consult the clustering matrix to determine what version of Windows Server is best suited to your requirements.
| |
Windows 2000 |
Windows Server 2003 |
| Standard Edition |
Not Supported |
Not Supported |
| Enterprise Edition |
2 |
8 |
| Datacenter Edition |
4 |
8 |
| Web Edition |
N/A |
Not Supported |
Warning: Exchange 2003 Clustering only use Active / Active clusters as a last resort. Microsoft supports active/active clusters only with a maximum of two nodes and 1,900 MAPI clients per node because an active/active cluster can quickly create a prohibitive level of potential overload.
