Benefits of Linux Clusters for HPC

The development of the Linux operating system over the years has incorporated features allowing it to take the lead position in clustering technology. Linux clusters are particularly well suited to HPC and relatively recent advancements like the use of GPUs in clusters for a number of reasons. Some of these are:

Scalability: Linux has been designed with scalability in mind. Systems Administrators frequently boast about the ease with which a Linux cluster can be scaled compared to other operating systems. Scalability is a key feature in the smooth operational capacity an HPC cluster can sustainably deliver. It plays a vital role in high performance computing; a role Linux clusters excel at.

Interoperability: The ability for Linux to operate with a variety of networks and architectures is another reason many organizations choose it for their clustering needs. The implementation and operation of an HPC system is a challenging endeavor. An OS that can be deployed and seamlessly interact with diverse, existing technologies can eliminate many of these challenges before they turn into time-consuming problems.

Maturity: The many years Linux architects and engineers have developed and tuned HPC systems implemented with Linux clusters is the key factor in stability, flexibility, and robust operation. Also, the many modifications throughout the years have made Linux clusters easier to manage with the addition of powerful management tools. The evolutionary benefits of Linux clusters in HPC can also be seen in the expertise of the solutions vendors. Their long-term experience with Linux has helped them to meet the demands of their clients, designing the most efficient, cost-effective HPC solutions available.

Open Source: Since the Linux operating system is open source, this allows anyone to alter, modify, or add to this already popular OS. Not all changes might be beneficial, but the modifications that make sense are quickly adopted by the community.

Worldwide Community: There are many organizations, consortiums, and individuals that make up the Linux community. This and Linux’s open source nature are the reason for the successfully mature OS it has developed into. The stability and flexibility of Linux are also partly due to the fact that the more engineers, developers, and vendors there are refining it, the better the end result will be. This allows Linux clusters in high performance computing to be highly adaptable with new technologies.

As many organizations have already discovered, these facts outlined above have made Linux clusters a solid choice for their high performance computing needs. However, it does have some drawbacks. The primary objection is that Linux clusters are difficult to implement and manage, requiring a certain level of expertise. This is a complaint which has abated somewhat with time and the maturity of the OS, but the ultimate decision is with the organization. Is acquiring some technical expertise too much of a tradeoff for a highly cost effective system with remarkable operational performance?  RAID, Inc. has deep experience in making Linux the best choice for many organizations.  Learn more about our Cluster Server offerings.