A cluster is a group of independent computer systems, referred to as nodes, working together as a unified
computing resource. A cluster provides a single name for clients to use and a single administrative interface, and
it guarantees that data is consistent across nodes.
Windows Clustering encompasses two different clustering technologies. These technologies implement the
following two types of clusters.
- A network load balancing cluster filters and distributes TCP/IP traffic across a range of
nodes, regulating connection load according to administrator-defined port rules.
- A failover cluster provides high availability for services, applications, and other resources
through an architecture that maintains a consistent image of the cluster on all nodes and that allows nodes to
transfer resource ownership on demand.
The following are the programming interfaces for the Windows Clustering technologies:
- The
Network Load Balancing Provider
allows developers to create remote administration and configuration tools as well as customized user interfaces
for Network Load Balancing clusters.
- The Failover Cluster APIs allow
developers to create cluster-aware applications, implement high availability for new types of resources, and
create remote administration and configuration tools.
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Build date: 9/19/2008