1  Cluster Computing

1.1 What is Cluster Computing?

Definition: Cluster

A cluster is a set of computers that are connected together and share resources as if they were one gigantic computer.

1.2 How Does Cluster Computing WorK?

Definition: Parallel Processing

Parallel Processing is the act of carrying out multiple tasks simultaneously to solve a problem. This is accomplished by dividing the problem into independent subparts, which are then solved concurrently.

Definition: Jobs

Jobs denote the independent subparts.

1.3 Why use Cluster Computing?

Pros

• Speeds up simulations by allowing iterations to be run simultaneously.
• Provides more resources for computations.
  • e.g. CPU Cores, RAM, Hard Drive Space, and Graphics Cards (GPUs).
• Nightly snapshots/backups of files.
• Extends the lifespan of your computer.

Cons

• Simulations are not instantly run.
  • Need to “queue” for resources.
• Higher barrier of entry due to knowledge requirements.
• Poorly handles opening and closing data sets.
• Adding or updating software is complex.