How to Create a File Server Cluster on Windows Server 2019

Setting up a file server cluster on Windows Server 2019 enhances data availability and resiliency by distributing file storage across multiple nodes. This article provides a detailed overview of the steps required to create a high-availability file server using failover clustering.

Steps to Create File Server Cluster on Windows 2019

Prerequisites

Before proceeding, make sure you have the following: At least two Windows Server 2019 machines.

• Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS).
• A shared storage solution, such as iSCSI, SAN, or Storage Spaces Direct.
• A private network for cluster communication.
• Properly configured DNS and static IP addresses.

Step 1. Install Failover Clustering Feature

Run the following command on each node to install Failover Clustering:

Verify Installation:

Step 2. Validate Cluster Configuration

• Open the Failover Cluster Manager.
• Click Validate Configuration.
• Add the servers that will form the cluster.
• Run the validation wizard to check for potential issues.

Step 3. Create the Cluster

• In Failover Cluster Manager, click Create Cluster.
• Select the servers to include in the cluster.
• Assign a Cluster Name and Static IP Address.
• Complete the wizard.

Step 4. Configure Cluster Quorum

• In Failover Cluster Manager, select the cluster.
• Click More Actions > Configure Cluster Quorum Settings.
• Choose a quorum type (e.g., Node Majority or File Share Witness for two-node clusters).
• Complete the wizard.

Step 5. Add Cluster Shared Storage

• Open the Failover Cluster Manager.
• Go to Storage > Disks.
• Click Add Disk to add shared storage to the cluster.
• Assign it as a Cluster Shared Volume (CSV).

Step 6. Install and Configure File Server Role

• Install the File Server Role:

• Open the Failover Cluster Manager.
• Click Roles > Configure Role.
• Choose File Server and enter a client access point.
• Assign the shared storage to the file server.

Step 7. Test Failover

• Try accessing the shared folder from a client:

• Shut down one node to test automatic failover.
• Monitor cluster health in Failover Cluster Manager.

For File Server Cluster Safety Using AOMEI Cyber Backup

AOEMI Cyber Backup provides you with a comprehensive solution to protect your valuable information through a file-based backup method. Whether you are an organization looking to protect important files or an individual looking to protect personal data, AOEMI Cyber Backup simplifies the backup process with its user-friendly interface and powerful features. It also supports virtual machine backup and system backup.

Multiple Backup Locations: Backups can be stored in various locations, such as local disks, network drives, or cloud storage, providing flexibility and redundancy.
Automated Backup Processes: Schedule regular automated backups to eliminate the risk of overlooking essential tasks.
Centralized Management: You can monitor and manage backups for all systems from a centralized console, simplifying backup administration.
Agentless Backup: You can back up all virtual machines without installing agents.

How to Automate File-Based Backup for Windows

Step 1. Download and install AOMEI Cyber Backup on a computer as the central console, and install the Agent package on all the client computers.

Choose the device containing the system you want to back up. If the device is not listed, you can select + Add Windows Device to add the Windows device.

Step 2. Navigate to Backup Task > + Create New Task and select File Backup as the Backup Type.

Then, set the Task Name, Target, Archive, and Schedule as needed.

Step 3. Select Add the schedule and start backup now, or Add the schedule only to start the file level backup.

Conclusion

You can ensure high availability and redundancy of file shares by setting up file server clustering in Windows Server 2019. This setup prevents downtime and ensures business continuity. Always monitor cluster health and apply updates as needed.