Mastering cluster technology - the linking of servers - is important for application and system programmers and network designers, administrators, and managers. This book presents introductory and advanced material of Microsoft's cluster technology called Windows NT. It examines a range of topics, including design, implementation, and maintenance.

This will be a comprehensive and authoritative guide to understanding Microsoft's Windows NT cluster technology called Wolfpack. It will range from introductory material to advanced material that will be increasingly in demand by applications programmers working with this important server technology that appears destined to lead the pack where cluster technology is concerned. Cluster technology involves linking servers in such a way to provide users with the highest degree of availability possible to users. This involves three basic functions: fault tolerant computing; load balancing, and centralized administration and monitoring. Its basic aim is to provide high-speed computing that can withstand any failure in the overall system by a series of backup procedures that ensure zero downtime. This book will cover the entire range of topics from design, implementation and maintenance of the Wolfpack server technology. TOC:Review of Clustering Techniques.- Benefits of Clusters.- Microsoft Cluster Server Basics.- Setting Up Microsoft Cluster Server.- Failover and Failback.- Microsoft Cluster Server Communications.- Cluster Programming Basics.- Programming with the Cluster Server SDK.- Microsoft Cluster Server Administrator.- WindowsNT Based Clustering Solutions.- Appendix A: Glossary.- Appendix B: Additional Information.- Appendix C: Cluster API Reference.- Appendix D: Cluster Utility Functions.