High Performance Computing

Module 3
Cluster Computing
Cluster computing is a collection of tightly or loosely connected computers
that work together so that they act as a single entity.

The connected computers execute operations all together thus creating the
idea of a single system.

The clusters are generally connected through fast local area networks
(LANs)

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Cluster Computing

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Cluster Computing : Importance
1. Cluster computing gives a relatively inexpensive, unconventional to the
large server or mainframe computer solutions.

2. It resolves the demand for content criticality and process services in a

3. Many organizations and IT companies are implementing cluster

4. It ensures that computational power is always available.

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Cluster Computing : Importance

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 Types of Cluster Computing
1.High performance (HP) clusters :
HP clusters use computer clusters and supercomputers to solve advance
computational problems. They are used to performing functions that
need nodes to communicate as they perform their jobs. They are
designed to take benefit of the parallel processing power of several
nodes.
2. Load-balancing clusters :
Incoming requests are distributed for resources among several nodes
running similar programs or having similar content. This prevents any
single node from receiving a disproportionate amount of task. This type
of distribution is generally used in a web-hosting environment.

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 Types of Cluster Computing
3. High Availability (HA) Clusters :
HA clusters are designed to maintain redundant nodes that can act as
backup systems in case any failure occurs. Consistent computing
services like business activities, complicated databases, customer
services like e-websites and network file distribution are provided. They
are designed to give uninterrupted data availability to the customers.

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 Types of Cluster Computing
3. High Availability (HA) Clusters :
HA clusters are designed to maintain redundant nodes that can act as
backup systems in case any failure occurs. Consistent computing
services like business activities, complicated databases, customer
services like e-websites and network file distribution are provided. They
are designed to give uninterrupted data availability to the customers.

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 Classification of Cluster
Open Cluster :
IPs are needed by every node and those are accessed only through the
internet or web. This type of cluster causes enhanced security concerns.

Close Cluster :
The nodes are hidden behind the gateway node, and they provide
increased protection. They need fewer IP addresses and are good for
computational tasks.

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 Cluster Computing Architecture

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 Cluster Computing Architecture
•It is designed with an array of interconnected individual computers and
the computer systems operating collectively as a single standalone
system.
•It is a group of workstations or computers working together as a single,
integrated computing resource connected via high speed interconnects.
•A node – Either a single or a multiprocessor network having memory,
input and output functions and an operating system.
•Two or more nodes are connected on a single line or every node might
be connected individually through a LAN connection.

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 Advantages of Cluster Computing
1. High Performance :
The systems offer better and enhanced performance than that of
mainframe computer networks.
2. Easy to manage :
Cluster Computing is manageable and easy to implement.
3. Scalable :
Resources can be added to the clusters accordingly.
4. Expandability :
Computer clusters can be expanded easily by adding additional
computers to the network. Cluster computing is capable of combining
several additional resources or the networks to the existing computer
system.
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 Advantages of Cluster Computing
5. Availability :
The other nodes will be active when one node gets failed and will
function as a proxy for the failed node. This makes sure for enhanced
availability.
6. Flexibility :
It can be upgraded to the superior specification or additional nodes can
be added.

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 Disadvantages of Cluster Computing
1. High cost :
It is not so much cost-effective due to its high hardware and its design.
2. Problem in finding fault :
It is difficult to find which component has a fault.
3. More space is needed :
Infrastructure may increase as more servers are needed to manage and
monitor.

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 Applications of Cluster Computing
•Various complex computational problems can be solved.
•It can be used in the applications of aerodynamics, astrophysics and in
data mining.
•Weather forecasting.
•Image Rendering.
•Various e-commerce applications.
•Earthquake Simulation.

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