in-place clustering

[Rodrick Sagun]

I have a Proliant CL380 that has been running visual applications such as images and video. For the longest time, the top node has been turned off because the e: drive will not work with the cluster feature. My question is,is there a way to create the cluster even though it has not been clustered since it was bought. Also the server is sitting in the DMZ so, will I be able to set up the cluster service even though it is not part of a domain?
Any input would be appreciated. Thanks in advance

[Steven Clementi]

No matter how you look at it, the cluster nodes NEED to be in a domain because they NEED a Domain Level User account for starting the service.

There is a term called Domainlets that microsoft has an article on which describes HOW to build a cluster in its "own domain", but it requires dcpromo'ing the cluster nodes and stripping out the replication or at least part of it.

As for setting up a cluster after the fact, you may/will have to shutdown the running node so that you can make sure the second node can see all the data drives and the quorum you will need to use. Once the drives are there, make sure they are using the same drive letters and turn it off.

Reboot your second node and start the cluster wizard. Make sure you follow the rules when building a MSCS cluster.


Microsoft MSCS Installation Resources..
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;259267

Domainlet Info...
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;281662

What is your "E:" drive?