Which ClusterXL mode utilizes a non-unicast MAC address for the cluster IP?

In ClusterXL, the mode that utilizes a non-unicast MAC address for the cluster IP is Load Sharing Multicast. This mode allows for load balancing traffic across multiple cluster members while still providing redundancy and failover capabilities. Non-unicast MAC addresses, such as multicast addresses, enable the forwarding of packets to all cluster members simultaneously, which is essential for efficient load balancing in this mode.

With Load Sharing Multicast, incoming traffic is distributed among all members of the cluster, and each member can respond to traffic destined for the cluster IP. This ensures that each member can handle part of the load, thus optimizing resource utilization and enhancing performance. The use of a non-unicast MAC address is crucial here because it allows the devices on the network to recognize that the packet is intended for a group of devices rather than a single device.

In contrast, other modes like High Availability primarily prioritize a failover approach, where one member becomes the active device, and the other remains in standby mode. Similarly, Load Sharing Pivot and Master/Backup modes differ fundamentally in their approach to cluster functionality and MAC address usage, focusing more on active/standby configurations or pivoting between active members without utilizing multicast addressing.