What advantage does cluster computing provide over a single supercomputer?

Cluster computing offers a significant advantage in reduced costs while maintaining comparable performance to a single supercomputer. One of the key principles behind cluster computing is its ability to utilize multiple, less expensive commodity hardware nodes, which can collectively perform tasks that would typically require a more costly supercomputer. This approach allows organizations to achieve high levels of computing power while minimizing capital expenditure.

In addition to cost savings, cluster computing also brings scalability; as demands for processing increase, additional nodes can be added to the cluster without the need for major infrastructure overhauls. This flexibility is beneficial in environments where workloads can vary significantly.

The processing speed and performance of cluster computing can indeed be high, but the real tangible benefit often lies in the economic efficiency it provides compared to investing in a single piece of expensive supercomputing hardware. Furthermore, while clusters can offer enhanced security through distribution and isolation, it does not match the security capabilities of specifically designed secure systems. Lastly, maintenance in cluster setups can be more complex due to the need to manage multiple machines rather than being straightforward as it would be with a single supercomputer. Thus, the mention of easier maintenance is misleading in the context of cluster computing.