Web OS 10.0 Application Guide
304 Chapter 12: Global Server Load Balancing 212777-A, February 2002
IP Proxy for Non-HTTP Redirects
Typically, client requests fo r HT TP ap plications are automatically redirected to the location
with the best response and least load for the requested content. This is because the HTTP proto-
col has a built-in redirection function that allows requests to be redirected to an alternate site.
If a client requests a non-HTTP application such as FTP, POP3, or SMTP, then the lack of a
redirection function in these applications requires that a proxy IP address be configured on the
client port. The client port will initiate a redirect only if resources are una vailable at the first site.
NOTE This feature should be used as a method of last resort for GSLB implementations in
topologies where the remote servers are usually virtual server IP addresses in other Alteon
Web switches.
Figure 12-3 illustrates the packet-flow of HTTP and non-HTTP redirects in a GSLB environ-
ment.
Figure 12-3 HTTP and Non-HTTP Redirects

Client Site

DNS
Request

Site 1

DNS
Web
Servers
Web
Servers
DNS
Web Switch
Web Switch

Site 2

HTTP Applications
Non HTTP Applications
Proxy IP address is
configured on Client
port for non-HTTP
applications.
DNS

Internet

1a

1b 2a

2b