What is CONSISTENT HASHING and Where is it used?

Gaurav Sen・7 minutes read

Efficient load balancing in distributed systems like web caches and databases relies on consistent hashing with multiple hash functions to ensure uniform load distribution and prevent load skewing when adding or removing servers. A ring structure is used to map requests and servers, directing requests to the nearest server in a clockwise manner based on hashed IDs to maintain balance and prevent skewed distributions.

Insights

  • Implementing a ring structure with consistent hashing and multiple hash functions is essential for efficient load balancing in distributed systems like web caches and databases.
  • The redistribution of load points upon adding or removing servers helps maintain balance and prevent skewed distributions, ensuring uniform load distribution and optimal performance in the system.

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Recent questions

  • What is the purpose of the ring structure in server management?

    The ring structure is introduced to map requests and servers, ensuring uniform load distribution.

  • How does consistent hashing contribute to load balancing?

    Consistent hashing, utilizing multiple hash functions, is crucial for efficient load balancing in distributed systems.

  • Why is it important to redistribute load points when adding or removing servers?

    Redistributing load points maintains balance and prevents skewed distributions.

  • How does using multiple hash functions help in load skewing prevention?

    Multiple hash functions reduce the likelihood of imbalanced loads.

  • How does the ring structure ensure uniform load distribution?

    The ring structure directs requests to the nearest server in a clockwise manner.

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Summary

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Efficient Load Balancing in Distributed Systems

  • The issue lies in the impact of adding and removing servers on local data, leading to a need for a new approach.
  • A ring structure is introduced to map requests and servers, with requests hashed based on IDs and servers also hashed to determine their positions on the ring.
  • Requests are directed to the nearest server in a clockwise manner, ensuring uniform load distribution due to the randomness of hashes.
  • To address potential load skewing, multiple hash functions can be used to assign servers to various points on the ring, reducing the likelihood of imbalanced loads.
  • The addition or removal of servers involves redistributing load points to maintain balance and prevent skewed distributions.
  • Consistent hashing, utilizing multiple hash functions, is crucial for efficient load balancing in distributed systems like web caches and databases.
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