Configuring Windows HPC Server 2008 R2 for High Availability with SOA Applications
Applies To: Windows HPC Server 2008 R2
This guide provides procedures and guidance for deploying Windows® HPC Server 2008 R2 with Windows Server® 2008 R2 in a configuration designed for high availability for applications based on service-oriented architecture (SOA). For this configuration, you configure the head node (specifically, a set of head node services) in a two-server failover cluster, so that the head node can run on either of the two servers. Then you can configure one or more Windows Communication Foundation (WCF) broker nodes (specifically, the HPCBroker application) in one or more separate failover clusters.
Each failover cluster contains multiple servers that work together, so that if there is a failure of one server in a failover cluster, another server automatically begins providing service (in a process known as failover). Even if an outage occurs on a server, existing jobs can continue to run and new jobs can be submitted.
Setting up failover clustering enhances the availability of head node and WCF broker node services for unscheduled and scheduled outages.
Unscheduled outages If there is a failure of a resource such as a hardware or software failure on a server that is acting as the head node or as a WCF broker node, the result is a brief interruption during failover. After failover, you can work on the server that has the problem while the needed functionality continues to run on another server in that cluster.
Scheduled outages You might not want to lose functionality during routine node maintenance (for example, applying a service pack or hotfix, upgrading hardware, or updating an application). If your head node or WCF broker nodes are configured in a failover cluster, one server in a given failover cluster can support needed functionality while you apply software updates or upgrade hardware on another server in that failover cluster.
Important
Before you begin your deployment, review the Release Notes for Windows HPC Server 2008 R2.
Sections in this guide
This guide contains the following sections:
Overview of Windows HPC Server 2008 R2 and SOA in Failover Clusters
Requirements for Windows HPC Server 2008 R2 in Failover Clusters
Steps for Setting up Windows HPC Server 2008 R2 with Failover Clustering for WCF Broker Nodes
Running the Head Node in a Failover Cluster with Windows HPC Server 2008 R2
Additional references
Release Notes for Windows HPC Server 2008 R2