SQL and MySQL clustering solutions

SQL clustering

SQL (Structured Query Language) clustering is a type of clustering which is when two or more servers are configured to operate as a single virtual SQL server to support database transactions. Should one SQL server fail in the cluster, another clustered server will automatically take over, keeping downtime to minutes rather than hours or days as in normal circumstances.

MySQL clustering

Full MySQL clustering offers 99.999% availability and provides both failover resilience and increased database performance. MySQL clustered solutions are ideally suited for mission critical projects where downtime, of any length, is unacceptable.

Because data is stored in the server's main memory (RAM) and not on the hard disk, database transactions can be processed exceptionally quickly. Clustering requires three or more nodes which are configured to operate as a single virtual MySQL server. A typical configuration would have two load balanced Web/MySQL servers and a third MySQL server, known as a management node.

MySQL clustering provides no single point of failure with the added advantage of geographical flexibility. Customers can opt to have their environment clustered across data centres using shared or private IP LAN or VLAN for additional redundancy, if required.

Clustering methods

There are two primary clustering methods:

• Active-Active: both servers in the cluster process the transactions typically at 50% of the total resources.
• Active-Passive: only one server in the cluster processes the transactions. The second server only processes transactions if the first server fails.

Why is clustering needed for SQL or MySQL servers?

• High availability provides no single point of failure. So if a node fails, the next server will back it up, which means no downtime for any of your sites.
• Load balancing spreads work evenly between the nodes in the cluster, allowing all of the websites to be quicker.
• Scalability allows the expansion of a cluster as a clients company grows.
• They are easy to manage and administer because the nodes in the cluster are handled as one single system.

To talk to an Account Manager today about dedicated managed servers, call 0800 4584545, or request more information online.