PowerHA (HACMP) Cluster
PowerHA also known as HACMP (High Availability Cluster Multiprocessing) is a
clustering solution that groups multiple servers (nodes) into a single cluster.
These nodes work together to provide redundancy and failover capabilities. If
one node fails, another node in the cluster automatically takes over its
workloads, helping ensure minimal service disruption.
How PowerHA Works:
1. Cluster Nodes:
◦ A cluster is made up of two or more servers (nodes).
◦ Each node can run the same application or service.
2. Shared Storage:
◦ PowerHA typically uses shared disk storage (e.g. SAN) accessible by all nodes.
◦ This allows for data consistency between failovers.
3. Heartbeat Communication:
◦ Nodes continuously communicate via heartbeat messages.
◦ If a node stops responding, it is considered to have failed.
4. Resource Groups:
◦ Applications and associated resources (IP addresses, filesystems, services) are
grouped into resource groups.
◦ These groups can move between nodes as needed.
5. Failover Process:
◦ When a node or application fails, PowerHA automatically migrates the
resource group to another healthy node.
◦ This keeps the application running with minimal downtime.
6.Policy and Monitoring:
◦ PowerHA allows configuration of failover policies (e.g., automatic, manual).
◦ It constantly monitors health of applications, nodes, and storage.
Benefits of PowerHA:
• High availability (99.99% uptime goals)
• Automated failover and recovery
• Supports rolling upgrades for minimal downtime
• Works well with AIX and IBM Power Systems
• Integration with disaster recovery solutions (e.g.,
PowerHA System Mirror for DR).