Cluster

A cluster is a group of computers (called nodes or servers) that work together like one big system.

• Each node is a separate computer with its own CPU, memory, and storage.

• All the nodes are connected by a network so they can share tasks and data.

• If one node fails, the others can keep the system running.

• Clusters are used to handle big workloads, store large amounts of data, and keep services running without interruption.

Why use a cluster?

• To make work faster (tasks are divided between nodes).

• To avoid downtime (if one node stops, others keep working).

• To handle more users and more data at the same time.

Types of clusters:

1. High Performance Cluster (HPC) – focuses on speed for heavy calculations.

2. High Availability Cluster (HA) – focuses on keeping services always online.

3. Load Balancing Cluster – spreads requests evenly so no node gets overloaded.

How it works:

• Tasks are sent to different nodes.

• Nodes talk to each other over a fast network.

• A software layer manages which node does what.

Examples in real life:

• Google search runs on clusters of thousands of servers.

• Banks use clusters so their services never stop.

• Scientific research uses clusters to process huge data sets.