December 15, 2011
Server Clustering: The Ups and Downs of the Technology
In a previous post we took an initial stab at a bit of technology we feel many web masters can benefit from: That of server clustering. Though cloud computing might be taking over a large proportion of the benefits once served by this hardware configuration, we still feel like server clustering is a viable way to go for many Web users. With that in mind, here’s a second post devoted to the sole benefits and costs of using a server clustering network, as well as a bit about what you can expect while using such an arrangement.
Before we go any further though, we feel it’s our duty to at least mention what server clustering is. Server clustering, for the uninitiated, is a chain of interconnected servers that perform load balancing procedures to boost scalability and performance. This means that, instead of having a single static hardware unit, web masters have five, or even ten at their disposal. Obviously this increases power and performance, but what are the concrete benefits of this rig?
The Pros:
First off the bat, it’s obvious that using a chain of several servers as opposed to a single solitary unit will improve overall server performance. During peak demand hours, all of your content that needs distribution will be balanced across five-or-so servers, rather than one. This means increased scalability for the whole family, as well as more power to draw upon when things get rough.
Another benefit to using a server clustering is easier management. If one of your servers gets the digital flu, you can simply turn it off, leaving the other units running. As you perform the maintenance you need to perform, the other servers are left online, providing your content as normal. In this sense, server clustering is a fail-proof way to store your Web data.
The Cons:
However, server clustering isn’t all ups, but comes with a few downs, as well. For starters, the sheer cost of purchasing several servers is higher than buying one, obviously. Likewise, your selection in hardware is more limited than normal, as you’ll have to use servers that integrate well with each other. In addition, creating an architecture that works efficiently can be a costly and technically demanding affair. All in all, server clustering requires more knowledge, time, and money to get up off the ground.Popular LinksCategories: General |
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