How do you configure a Shared Folder in a Windows Failover Cluster?

[ProfRon]

You ever mess around with setting up a shared folder on a Windows failover cluster? I remember fumbling through it once. It feels tricky at first. But it clicks quick if you take it step by step.

Start by firing up the Failover Cluster Manager on your main node. You know, that tool where clusters live. Click on the cluster name in the left pane. Then poke around for Storage or Roles.

I like to add a new role first. Pick File Server from the list that pops up. Hit next a bunch. Let it wizard through the basics. It asks for a name for your file server. Make it something snappy.

Once that's in, right-click the new file server role. Choose Add Storage. Select Disks from the menu. Pick your shared disk. The one both nodes can see. Confirm it joins the cluster.

Now, for the folder itself. Jump into Server Manager on the active node. Go to File and Storage Services. Create a new share. Point it to your clustered disk. Set permissions loose or tight. Whatever fits your setup.

Test the failover after. Move the role to the other node. Watch the share stick around. Files stay put. No drama. I always reboot just to poke it.

If shares glitch, check network names. Make sure they're clustered too. Add a client access point. Ties everything neat. You got it running smooth now.

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