The Last Word
As you've learned in this chapter, Windows Server 2008 supports two distinct types of clustering: NLB clusters, which simply provide load distribution capabilities to certain IP-based applications; and true server clustering, which provides fault-tolerance capabilities to larger sets of machines.
NLB is quite useful if you have a web-based application and several machines that can be devoted to servicing that application. The hardware does not need to be terribly powerful, and NLB is a great way to put used machines into service while providing a faster end-user experience. True server clustering is a better fit for medium-size organizations that have business-critical applications that always have to be available, no questions asked. Of course, with the high availability aspect comes increased cost, and the hardware investment required for true fault-tolerant capabilities is significant and should not be overlooked.
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