Managing a Cluster of Single-Purpose Web Servers: Administrative and Technical Issues

While the preferred model for a web server at many institutions is to install, maintain, and support a single server for the entire organization, the University of Iowa Libraries uses an alternate model providing a number of different web servers across a number of different platforms in support of the Libraries' web project. This hybrid solution offers several advantages over a single-server solution. Such an implementation allows more content providers to deliver information in its existing format, and also allows the Libraries to offer new services quickly as more desktop applications integrate a web server component. Employing this type of solution, the University of Iowa Libraries currently provides information and services on 10 distinct web servers, with five additional servers either in development or under consideration. The solution enables the Libraries to embrace the web for delivery of important information and services to its clientele.