MACROMEDIA COLDFUSION 5-ADVANCED ADMINISTRATION, Manual

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244 Chapter 11 Scalability and Availability Overview
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Platform constraints
Determine if the software solution you are considering will be available on your
platform or operate with your preferred Web server. If reviewing data sheets and
other marketing collateral from vendors, make sure that the robust features you
want are available on the platform you need.
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Level of complexity
Some software-based clustering solutions have relatively low complexity. Others
introduce a higher level of complexity because of the features offered, the
amount of initial configuration and subsequent administration, or the amount of
integration that needs to occur between other systems and devices.
Combining hardware and software clustering solutions
Instead of having to choose either a hardware solution or a software solution,
another possibility is to combine both types of clustering choices. Combining
hardware and software solutions will certainly provide the greatest scalability and
availability capabilities for your site. Additionally, a combined solution is an
attractive option if your organization has already invested in one but is looking for
more comprehensive coverage. Having the flexibility to integrate hardware with
software means that your organization won’t necessarily have to absorb a capital loss
on a previous technology investment if you decide to purchase additional clustering
technology.
However, as already discussed, not all hardware or software solutions are equal.
Many have different features and capabilities, and not all hardware and software
integrate well together. Be sure to investigate thoroughly when purchasing additional
technology to augment your current solution.
For a visual representation of hardware and software clustering solutions working
together, see “Hardware-based clustering solutions” on page 240.