A cluster refers to a group of individual computers (nodes) — unified by a common system through software and networking — that work together to perform any given computing task. Cluster components are often connected via a high-speed, local area network. Commonly, each node utilizes a Linux operating system and other license-free software that implements parallelism, which is often referred to as a Beowulf cluster.

One of the primary benefits of using a cluster is the increased speed and reliability that is derived from connecting computers together. Clusters are ideal for tasks, such as scientific computations, that are interdependent and can be run separately but allow for interactivity so that computational calculations remain accurate over time.

Clusters do not need to be large to be effective. A cluster can be as simple as two nodes connected with Ethernet or as complex as hundreds of machines using a high-speed interconnect.

Since 2001, Advanced Clustering Technologies has specialized in clustering. Learn more about our Apex HPC clusters and why our loyal customers choose to buy from us.