If the highly available VMs are running on a cluster node which is in a different datacenter then the VMs will run in the redirected-access mode. This is because, the replicated disk in the datacenter where VM is running is usually presented to the cluster node as read-only on the storage array. Which means the I/O operations of the VMs on to the CSV disk is carried over the IP network to the coordinated node in the other datacenter and the coordinated node will take care of committing the I/O to the disk. Due to this, VMs may incur a performance penalty especially if the distance between the datacenter is long. This is where the CLX VM management feature plays a role.

The CLX for VM management ensures that the highly available VMs and the coordinated node of the CSV disk are always running in the cluster nodes of the same datacenter.

NOTE: A new cluster resource type called “Cluster Extension 3PAR for VM Management” is introduced to support the VM management in a cluster. This resource type is available only on Windows Server 2012 or Windows Server 2012 Server Core.

If the user does not need VMs running on a CSV disk which is in the redirected access mode, then the user needs to configure resources of type "Cluster Extension 3PAR for VM Management" in the corresponding VM role.

Steps to configure CLX feature for VM Management functionality for a highly available VM created on a CSV disk:

1.Create a CSV disk in the Failover Cluster Manager. The newly created CSV disk should be managed by the CLX to do storage failover. The CSV role in which the CSV disk is residing is not visible in the Failover Cluster GUI.

2.To create a Cluster Extension 3PAR cluster resource in the hidden CSV role, CLX has provided PowerShell Cmdlet to perform the required operation. For more information, see “Cluster Extension Cmdlets for CSV and Virtual Machine Management” (page 58)

3.Once the Cluster Extension 3PAR resource is created in the CSV role, configure the CLX Resource private properties. See “ Using Failover Cluster Management to set resource properties of a CLX resource on which a CSV disk is dependant (Windows Server 2012 and Windows Server 2012 Server Core)” (page 28)

4.Creation of highly available VMs on CSV disk is similar to the steps for creation of highly available VMs on a normal disk. Follow the steps to create the highly available VM on the CSV disk.

5.Once the highly available VM is created on the CSV disk, configure the CLX feature for the VM management functionality for that VM. This can be done using PowerShell Cmdlet or manual steps.

Following steps should be followed for enabling a VM for VM Management functionality:

Using PowerShell Cmdlet

CLX has provided PowerShell Cmdlet to make all the VMs which are created on a CSV disk for VM management functionality. If the user wants only specific set of VMs to have the VM management functionality, follow the manual steps as described below to make a specific VM for VM management functionality. For more information, see “Cluster Extension Cmdlets for CSV and Virtual Machine Management” (page 58).

Manual Steps:

If user wants only specific set of VMs of a CSV disk to have VM management functionality, follow the steps.

44 Configuring HP 3PAR Cluster Extension

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HP Cluster Software manual Configuring HP 3PAR Cluster Extension
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Cluster Software specifications

HP Cluster Software is a robust solution designed to enhance the reliability, availability, and scalability of computing environments in enterprise settings. This software is instrumental in managing clusters of servers, providing a unified framework that allows for efficient resource management, workload distribution, and high availability.

One of the main features of HP Cluster Software is its ability to deliver high availability through failover mechanisms. In the event of a hardware or software failure, the software automatically shifts workloads from the affected node to a standby node within the cluster, minimizing downtime. This feature is critical for organizations that require continuous access to their data and applications.

Scalability is another significant characteristic of HP Cluster Software. Organizations can easily add or remove nodes from the cluster without disrupting ongoing operations. This flexibility ensures that enterprises can adapt to changing workloads and resource demands efficiently, making it suitable for environments ranging from small businesses to large data centers.

Load balancing is a key technology employed by HP Cluster Software. It intelligently distributes workloads across the available nodes, optimizing resource utilization and ensuring that no single server is overwhelmed. By balancing the load, organizations can achieve better performance and enhance the response times of applications, which are essential for user satisfaction.

HP Cluster Software supports various clustering topologies, including active-active and active-passive configurations. This versatility allows organizations to choose the architecture that best fits their operational requirements. Additionally, the software integrates seamlessly with various HP and third-party hardware and software solutions, thus providing a holistic environment for managing IT resources.

Moreover, HP Cluster Software offers centralized management tools that simplify cluster administration. Administrators can monitor cluster performance, manage workloads, and configure settings all from a single interface. This ease of use reduces the complexity often associated with managing large clusters and empowers IT teams to respond rapidly to issues.

In summary, HP Cluster Software is an essential tool for organizations looking to enhance their IT infrastructure's availability, reliability, and performance. With its failover capabilities, scalability options, load balancing technology, and centralized management features, it stands out as a comprehensive solution for modern computing challenges.
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