Basic load balancing refers to the process of distributing incoming network traffic across multiple servers or resources within a computer network to ensure optimal utilization and performance. It is a fundamental technique used in networking and server management to enhance reliability, maximize throughput, and minimize response time for users accessing applications or services.
The difference between a basic and standard load balancer typically lies in their features, capabilities, and scalability options. A basic load balancer, often provided as a part of cloud service offerings, generally offers essential load balancing functionalities such as distributing traffic across multiple servers based on round-robin or least connections algorithms. It is suitable for basic applications with moderate traffic volumes and does not usually include advanced features like SSL termination, session persistence, or health monitoring.
There are several types of load balancing techniques designed to cater to different network architectures and application requirements:
- Round Robin: Distributes incoming requests evenly across a group of servers in sequential order.
- Least Connections: Directs traffic to the server with the fewest active connections, ensuring optimal resource utilization.
- IP Hash: Uses a hash function to assign clients to servers based on their IP addresses, ensuring consistent connections for the same clients.
The difference between basic and standard SKU (Stock Keeping Unit) lies in the service offerings and pricing models provided by cloud service providers. In cloud computing terminology, SKUs represent different service tiers or plans for cloud services, with each SKU offering varying levels of features, performance, and support options. A basic SKU typically offers essential functionalities at a lower cost, catering to simpler use cases or smaller-scale deployments. In contrast, a standard SKU often includes more advanced features, higher performance capabilities, and enhanced support options, suitable for larger-scale applications or enterprises requiring robust infrastructure services.