2.1.2 System management in a distributed server environment

In a distributed server environment, administration tasks and configuration files are distributed among the nodes, reducing the reliance on a central repository or administration server for basic functions and bring-up. The administrative services and the console are hosted on the deployment manager.

Managed appservers are installed on nodes. Each node has a node agent that interacts with the deployment manager to maintain and manage the processes on that node.

Multiple sets of the configuration files exist. The master configuration is maintained on the deployment manager node and pushed out, synchronized, to the nodes. Each managed process starts with its own configuration file.

Figure 2-2 shows manager a multi-server installation.

Figure 2-2 Managing a multi-server installation

Configuration should always be done at the deployment manager and synchronized out to the nodes. Although it is theoretically possible to configure nodes locally using wsadmin, it is not recommended and any changes made will be overwritten at the next synchronization.

However, operational commands can be directed at the deployment manager, node agent, or server.