Windows NT Clustering Service

The Windows NT Clustering Service supports high-availability file servers, databases, and generic applications and services. A cluster is a collection of computer nodes-independent, self-contained computer systems-that work together to provide a more reliable and powerful system than a single node. In general, the goal of a cluster is to distribute a computing load over several systems, without users or system administrators being aware of the independent systems running the services. The Windows NT Clustering Service detects and restarts failed hardware or software components or migrates the failed component's functionality to another node if local restart is not possible. It also offers a much simpler user and programming interface. Microsoft Cluster Service for Windows NT has been shipping for about a year on Windows NT version 4.0. The upcoming Windows NT 5.0 release of Windows NT Clustering Service will improve ease of use through a wizard that guides the user through the creation of cluster resources.