Multi-subnet, multiple cluster VIPs sharing same MAC causes routing issues?

daboochmeister 1 Reputation point
2022-05-02T02:35:11.423+00:00

Hi - please forgive any inaccurate terminology, I'm not a Microsoft cluster person by background (more HSRP/VRRP and F5). We have a multi-subnet (multi-site for DR) cluster, with 1 node at each site. The group involved has added multiple cluster groups with separate IPs (I'll call them "cluster VIPs") - the rationale being that different services may need to fail over at different times. But at the network level, all of the cluster VIPs are sharing the same network adapter, and therefore the same MAC. That is causing routing issues from other subnets, as the switch sees multiple IPs attempting to use the same MAC.

Is this a proper design for this situation? My simple brain is saying that each cluster VIP should in fact have a separate adapter (and therefore a separate MAC) "assigned" to it on each node? If so, any pointers to how to accomplish that would be appreciated. Or, if the issue lies elsewhere, any hints or suggestions appreciated.

Arigato!

Windows Server Clustering
Windows Server Clustering
Windows Server: A family of Microsoft server operating systems that support enterprise-level management, data storage, applications, and communications.Clustering: The grouping of multiple servers in a way that allows them to appear to be a single unit to client computers on a network. Clustering is a means of increasing network capacity, providing live backup in case one of the servers fails, and improving data security.
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  1. risolis 8,701 Reputation points
    2022-05-02T03:14:31.98+00:00

    Hello @daboochmeister

    Thank you for posting this concern here.

    I fully understand when you stated the following terms ( HSRP/VRRP and F5)... : )

    I would like to get familiar with your issue so, when you mentioned that there is one node placed per site... Is this node a Windows or Network/LB appliance?

    BR,