Article: Q171415
Product(s): Microsoft Windows NT
Version(s): winnt:4.0
Operating System(s):
Keyword(s): kb3rdparty kbnetwork
Last Modified: 09-AUG-2001
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The information in this article applies to:
- Microsoft Windows NT Server version 4.0
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SUMMARY
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Network adapter fault tolerance provides improved reliability to a network
server by using a second identical network adapter that can continue network
operations in the event of a failure of the primary network adapter. Microsoft
Windows NT does not directly provide this feature, but it is provided by some
manufacturers of network interface cards.
MORE INFORMATION
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On a server that requires high availability, a single network card can be a
critical point of failure. Network adapter fault tolerance provides an extra
level of reliability by using an adapter and driver combination that senses a
failure on one adapter, then migrates its function (including its IP address in
a TCP/IP environment) in a manner transparent to the operation of both the host
server and clients.
Windows NT does not directly provide this function, but it has been implemented
by third-party manufacturers of network adapters for use with Windows NT.
Currently, these manufacturers are shipping adapter and driver sets that support
network adapter fault tolerance:
Compaq Computer Corporation, using Compaq Advanced Network Control Utility:
- NetFlex-3/E Controller
- NetFlex-3/P Controller
- Netelligent 10/100TX PCI UTP Controller
- Netelligent 10T PCI UTP Controller
- Netelligent Integrated 10/100 TX UTP Controller
- Netelligent Dual 10/100 TX PCI UTP Controller
- Intel Pro 100 Intelligent Server Adapter
Intel Corporation, Adapter Fault Detection using Softset:
- EtherExpress(TM) PRO/100 Server adapters
The third-party products discussed here are manufactured by vendors independent
of Microsoft; we make no warranty, implied or otherwise, regarding these
products' performance or reliability.
REFERENCES
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Compaq white paper: Compaq Advanced Network Error Correction Support in a
Microsoft Windows NT Server Environment. Available from the following location
on the Internet:
http://www.compaq.com
Intel Technical Document: Adapter Fault Tolerance (AFT) Installation Notes for
the EtherExpress(TM) PRO/100 Server Adapter Under Windows NT 4.0. Available from
the following location on the Internet:
http://www.intel.com
Additional query words: ethernet team teaming aft
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Keywords : kb3rdparty kbnetwork
Technology : kbWinNTsearch kbWinNT400search kbWinNTSsearch kbWinNTS400search kbWinNTS400
Version : winnt:4.0
Issue type : kbinfo
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