Build an Exchange 2003 Cluster-Part 1: Plan and Prepare

摘要

Clustering Microsoft Exchange Server 2003 servers can potentially improve service levels by reducing downtime-especially planned downtime, when you have to reboot servers after applying monthly Microsoft patches. Windows Server 2003 includes enhancements that make setdng up and deploying a cluster much easier than under Windows 2000 Server. If you believe clustering can benefit your Exchange organization and are ready to get started, this arti- cle can help guide you through the cluster-setup process. In part 1, I explain Exchange clustering basics and the preparatory steps you must take before building a new two-node Exchange 2003 Service Pack 1 (SP1) cluster running on Windows 2003 SP1. Part 2, which will appear in an upcoming issue of Windows IT Pro, will explain how to install Exchange 2003 on a Windows 2003 SP1 cluster and post-installation best practices.