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Cluster controller

Cluster controller definition

A cluster controller is a component responsible for managing a cluster of nodes. Cluster controllers make sure that the nodes operate efficiently while following the rules set out by the cluster’s operator.

See also: network node manager, node, network management system

Cluster controller functions

  • Resource management: Overseeing the optimal allocation of resources within the cluster, such as CPU, memory, storage, and network bandwidth.
  • Load balancing: Redistributing workload across nodes to prevent overload and bottlenecks.
  • Fault recovery: Monitoring the health of the nodes within the cluster and taking action if an abnormality is detected in any individual node (such as restarting it, reallocating resources, or initiating a failover to backup nodes).
  • Coordination: Facilitating synchronization among nodes to ensure consistent behavior and prevent conflicts in data processing.
  • Enforcement: Maintain consistency across all nodes through cluster-wide rules. Cluster controllers define parameters such as replication factors, data partitioning schemes, and access control rules.
  • Scalability: Dynamically managing the addition or removal of nodes to help scale the cluster in response to changing circumstances.

Real examples of cluster controller use

  • Big data processing: Distributed data processing frameworks use cluster controllers to process large volumes of data across multiple nodes at the same time.
  • High-performance computing (HPC): Cluster controllers are used in HPC environments to coordinate scientific computations and simulations.
  • Cloud computing: Cloud computing platforms like Microsoft Azure use cluster controllers to manage cloud data center infrastructure.
  • Internet of Things (IoT): In IoT deployments, cluster controllers manage clusters of edge devices or gateways.