Linux Clustering With Csm and Gpfs

This IBM® Redbook gives a broad understanding for building and deploying Linux-based clusters on IBM xSeries® hardware. Even though this redbook is generally based on the new IBM 1350 Linux Cluster, and IBM xSeries 345 and 335 product offerings, the information provided can be used in more generic environments as well.

The majority of this redbook addresses two specific pieces of IBM software: IBM Cluster Systems Management (CSM) for Linux and IBM General Parallel File System (GPFS) for Linux. These products make the deployment and operation of Linux-based clusters simpler and allow the customer to start generating a return on their investment sooner.

Part 1 provides the concepts and definitions to be used throughout the book.

• Chapter 1 provides a general overview of clustering and sets the stage for the rest of the book.

• Chapter 2 introduces the IBM 1350 Linux Cluster product and describes its components.

• Chapter 3 introduces IBM CSM Version 1.3 for Linux.

• Chapter 4 introduces IBM GPFS Version 1.3 for Linux.

Part 2 provides an approach for building Linux CLusters using CSM as the Cluster management tool and GPFS as a reliable shared disk file system.

• Chapters 5 through 8 progressively provide information on how to build a Linux Cluster based on IBM 1350 Linux Cluster, CSM, and GPFS.

• Chapter 9 provides information for those who are interested in converting existing xCat clusters to CSM.

This redbook is recommended for anyone considering the deployment of Linux-based clusters, especially when using IBM hardware and software.

The team that wrote this redbook

This redbook was produced by a team of specialists from around the world working at the International Technical Support Organization, Austin Center.

Stephen Hochstetler is a Consulting I/T Specialist at the International Technical Support Organization, Austin Center. He writes extensively and teaches IBM classes worldwide on all areas of systems management and Linux clusters. Before joining the ITSO three years ago, Stephen worked in the Tivoli® Services Organization as a Network Management Specialist. He is a certified ITIL Service Manager.

Bob Beringer is the Chief Technologist for the Electronic On-Ramp, an IBM Business Partner that is based out of the Washington D.C. Metro Area. Mr. Beringer has approximately 20 years of experience in the IT field, and specializes in Systems Design and Integration. Mr. Beringer has several years of experience working with Linux Clusters, Storage Area Networks, Enterprise Backup and Fibre Channel Technologies. Mr. Beringer has received advanced training from leading organizations like: IBM, Red Hat, SNIA, Oracle, Veritas, Brocade, CEDIA, and currently holds the following certifications: Microsoft® Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Marine Corps Certified Unix / Intelligence Systems Administrator, Certified Information Systems Security Specialist (CISSP), Certified Trainer, Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW), A+, N+, and I-Net+. His e-mail address is: <Bob.Beringer@usa.net>.

Thanks to the following people for their contributions to this project:

Lupe Brown, Wade Wallace, Julie Czubik, and Chris BlatchleyInternational Technical Support Organization, Austin Center

Rebecca AustenIBM Corporation, Austin - Linux Cluster Marketing

Kevin Rudd, Tom Christian, Deneen DockIBM Corporation, Beaverton Support Center

Bruce Potter, Sean Safron, Jennifer Cranfill, Keshav Ranganathan, Elizabeth BadonIBM Corporation - CSM Development Team

Dave Craft, Robert Gjertsen, Puneet ChaudharyIBM Corporation - GPFS Development Team

Antonius ParipurnantoIBM Indonesia

Thanks also to the authors of the earlier editions of this redbook:

Bart Jacob, Luis Ferreira, Edson ManoelIBM Corporation - ITSO Austin

Chrisanthy CarlaneIBM Indonesia

David LeitkoIBM Corporation -Beaverton, Oregon

Antonio FosterIBM Brazil

Peter ZutenisIBM Australia

Eric Monjoin and Jean-Claude DaunoisIBM France

Steve HillIBM UK