Using NLBM for two VM CSG/WI boxes, in the Virtualization + Server-Based Computing forum on BrianMadden.com

First, I wonder if this is an acceptable solution for a small company NOT wanting to spend a bunch of money on a CAG.

Second, in configuring the tcp/ip (using MS KB323431) I see I am supposed to add the cluster ip in the advanced setting of tcp/ip properties of the NIC. I assume I am to add that cluster IP in both of my clustered vm's. Is that correct?

Right now when I try to add the second host to the cluster in NLBM my second CSG/WI server doesn't show up in the 'interfaces available for configuring the cluster' window. I am guess that is because the cluster ip is not added to tcp/ip advanced properties.

My apologies for rambling - live environment and I don't want to hose it n a friday... or anyday,

Thanks

Don

I'll limit my answer to offering an opinion about the first part of your question.

Frankly I've no idea what the right answer to the second part of your question would be, but the fact that you have to ask here at all should be sufficient to tell you that whatever the short-term answer is the long-term support issues that this design will create will certainly be more than a small company can affort.

Rather than aiming for high availability, you would be better off keeping things simple and focusing on rapid recovery. Run a single CSG/WI server as a VM Guest, employ sound change control and version control processes to maintain stability. Always keep a backup copy of the current working build, and if it ever blows up, use the flexibility of having a VM environment to provide rapid recovery.

Best of luck

Simon