Windows Clustering

Definition - What does Windows Clustering mean?

Windows clustering is a strategy that uses Microsoft Windows and the synergy of independent multiple computers linked as a unified resource - often through a local area network (LAN). Clustering is more cost-effective than a single computer and provides improved system availability, scalability and reliability. Windows clustering also provides a single client name, a single administrative interface and data consistency across all nodes.

Windows clustering is also known as Microsoft clustering technology or Microsoft cluster server.

Techopedia explains Windows Clustering

Windows clustering includes three primary components:

  • Server clustering: Maintains data integrity and provides failover support.
  • Network load balancing (NLB): Addresses bottlenecks resulting from front-end Web services.
  • Component load balancing (CLB): Addresses the unique scalability and availability needs of middle-tier applications.

Windows clustering guards against three types of failure: Application/service, system/hardware and site failures, which may result from power outages, connection failures or disasters.

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