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Building Linux Clusters by David HM Spector, defines a cluster in its simplest form as "a bunch of computers tied together with a network, working on some large problem that has been broken down into smaller pieces." The simplicity of the definition belies the importance of the subject. The list of the world`s most powerful supercomputers now includes Beowulf machines: PCs running Linux, clustered together into a single machine. From scientific applications to transaction processing, clustering technology provides an affordable, scalable computing solution. One of the hottest topics in Linux today is the ability to cluster Linux machines to mimic the performance of supercomputers (costing hundreds of thousands of dollars) for a fraction of the cost. "Computing problems always seem to meet or exceed available computing resources. There is always a need for more processing power, more network bandwidth, and greater I/O capabilities," says Spector. "This need for speed has prompted a whole new class of machines: supercomputers. In fact, supercomputer class machines”the construction of which is the topic of my book”influence almost every aspect of modern life." "The Linux operating system has given rise to a host of interesting and unique computing possibilities that would have been impossible, and perhaps even unthinkable, ISBN 9788173661396
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Pages : 360
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