A Server Cluster is one where a set of servers are connected together with a hi-speed network which will enable them to enhance the performance. While they perform most of the operations individually, an abstract layer of clustering software makes it look like a single unit for the external machines.

If you are hosting a server cluster, based on your requirements, you will have to choose the cluster model which suits your need and the technology t host the servers which will meet your programs’ dependency. While there are a lot of options for the cluster models, there are mostly just two major players when it comes to the technology, Linux and MS Windows. While windows is little user friendly, doesn’t support all the cluster models and wouldn’t allow all the customizations for your cluster. If you have a technical team, I would suggest you to choose Linux as it offers wider options and better pricing model.

While the cost of implementing Windows server clusters would depend on the number of nodes, Linux is completely free as it is licensed under GNU GPL license. With zero software cost and the source code at your hand, you can implement all the features without any restrictions. It is believed that Linux systems offer better tools for programming and managing the servers. With practically no viruses out there, you don’t have to worry about the threat of being exposed. The traffic control and server management is just flawless in Linux systems.

For any server cluster, one would need cluster management software. While in the windows cluster we had only one option, here we have multiple vendors we can choose from. There are in-house products like Red Hat Linux Cluster Management and Novell Cluster Solutions which integrate very well with the OS and handle large amount of traffic very well. Then there is third party software like Vertical Cluster Management (VCM) among others which are very efficient and are far less expensive when it comes to licensing. One of the prominent factors about the Linux models is that, it supports Windows based file systems as well. So, you can use the same database across all.

With Linux based Server clustering, it goes to a whole new level. With the right expertise, we can deploy virtual server cluster as well. This will open doors to a whole new field of technology integration. The cost will be much less and the nodes of the cluster could be de-localized. This will help you in reducing the cost further. While the technology involved here is quite complex, it is achievable.

With so many advantages and option, Linux is the obvious choice for setting up your Server Cluster. Linux also owns maximum market share when it comes to virtual servers and server clusters. The only thing which could be a small hindrance getting the right people to implement the Linux technology and get the best out of it. With giant firms like Novell and Red Hat, it is not hard to find quality support.