10. Map Reduce & Distribution

Question 1

What is Horizontal Scaling?

Answer 1

Also known as scaling-out, this involves adding more machines with less RAM and processing capacity, and connecting in a way that they work as a single unit

Question 2

What is Vertical Scaling?

Answer 2

Also known as scaling-up, this involves adding new machines with more RAM and processing capacity, and having one or little machines in the whole unit

Question 3

What are the pro’s and con’s of Horizontal Scaling? (6)

Answer 3

Pro’s
• Much cheaper to buy smaller systems
• Resilience is improved due to the presence of discrete, multiple systems
• Takes advantage of smaller systems and allows fault tolerance

Con’s
• Utility costs for cooling and electricity are higher
• More networking equipment may be needed for connections
• Need to manage communication of data between systems

Question 4

What are the pro’s and con’s of Vertical Scaling? (6)

Answer 4

Pro’s
• Utility costs of cooling and electricity are lower
• Easy to install one machine than multiple machines
• Management of just one system is much easier

Con’s
• Less fault tolerance available
• Less room for up-gradability in the future
• Cost of purchase and installation is very high