Building my first SQL Server 2005 2-node Cluster

Hey Guys,
I'm building my first SQL 2005 64-bit cluster. I want it to be a complete success. What info do I need ahead of time? I'm specifically talking about the different service accounts that weren't there for SQL 2000 clustering.
Much thanks in advance,
A

Hi A,
Excellent ambition! First step is, as you already know if you have setup SQL Server 2000 in a cluster, is to make sure the cluster and especially the shared drives are impeccable. Next step, if this is Windows 2003, is to get the MSDTC sorted.
For the 2005 specific; make sure there is no GPO in place that can mess up your accounts (such as a GPO that will prevent the startup accounts you choose from acquiring certain rights). One good idea is to put your SQL Servers in a separate OU in the domain. The setup will take of creating the right groups for you.
There is a whitepaper out there "Failover Clustering for Microsoft SQL Server 2005 and SQL Server 2005 Analysis Services", http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...dc-a17b-4f09-b282-c6830fead499&DisplayLang=en. You might want to browse through it.
HTH!
/Elisabeth

Hi A,
Excellent ambition! First step, which you already know if you have setup SQL 2000 on a cluster, is to make sure the Cluster and the shared drives are impeccable. Next step, if you are on Windows 2003, is to sort out MSDTC.
For the 2005 specifics, make sure there is no GPO in place that can prevent the startup accounts you choose from acquiring certain rights. A good idea is to keep your SQL Servers (and other servers) in a separate OU in the domain. The setup will take care of setting up the groups.
There is a comprehensive whitepaper "Failover Clustering for Microsoft SQL Server 2005 and SQL Server 2005 Analysis Services", http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/...dc-a17b-4f09-b282-c6830fead499&DisplayLang=en. You should probably browse through that.
HTH!
/Elisabeth

Thanks for the advice. But what are:
1. GPO
2. OU
Thanks,
A

Thanks a ton.
A