Microsoft cluster services are used to provide redundancy (protection groups) for IP-enabled client/server applications such as Microsoft Exchange, Oracle, and DNS. In a cluster configuration, a group of physical and virtual servers (nodes) provide application protection with one active server and additional servers in standby mode. The active node associates one of its interfaces with a virtual IP address for that application service. Clients connect to an application by using the virtual IP address for the cluster.
During a protection switch, where the service on the active host switches to the standby host, the new active host assumes the virtual IP address. Clients continue transparent access of the application.
The Server Manager supports discovery and monitoring of Microsoft Cluster Services, associating the IP address for the virtual cluster with the active physical host system device and the protection group.
To view notifications, maps, and containment information about cluster objects, attach the Global Console to the Global Manager. The VMware Smart Assurance Service Assurance Manager Operator Guide provides instructions.
