Clustering can ensure seamless continuation of services in the event of hardware failure. Clustering can also allow several servers, known as nodes in a cluster, to operate and share workloads, often increasing performance of key business processes.

Clustering works by enabling several server class machines, or nodes, to share the same logical name in a network. Clustering is typically facilitated by the use of shared storage in the form of a SAN or server virtualization. These technologies allow for quick replication and hosting of server sessions without the time-consuming tasks of physical assembly and reloading of identical operation systems and application software.

There are two types of clusters: network load balancing clusters and server clusters. A network load balancing cluster filters and distributes TCP/IP traffic across a range of nodes, regulating the connection load according to administrator-defined port rules. A server cluster provides high availability for services, applications, and other resources through an architecture that maintains a consistent image of the cluster on all nodes.

Sovran’s staff uses structured project methodology to define your company’s objectives for clustering, measure the key operating metrics of your current environment, analyze the correct application of clustering technologies and implement a solution that best meets your needs. The result is a plan to operate and control your server cluster solution so it may deliver years of high performance and service to your business.