The following enhancements are made to the cluster configuration workflow:

• Specify flexible number of physical IP addresses:

  You have the flexibility about the number of public data IPs that are required during configuration. You can specify any number between 0 to 4 (considering a 2-node cluster with 2 public data NICs). This feature is supported during initial configuration, while adding a node, and during upgrade scenarios.

• Configure at least one NTP server for the cluster:

  At least one NTP server must be configured for the cluster. Unlike in earlier releases, configuring NTP is not optional.

• Configure a virtual IP address for a public network interface that does not have a physical IP address assigned to it:

  A physical IP address need not be assigned to a public network interface before assigning a virtual IP address to it. Earlier you were required to assign a physical IP address to a public network interface if you wanted to assign a virtual IP address to it. This feature is supported during initial configuration and while assigning a virtual IP address from the command-line interface after the configuration is complete.

• Set lockdown mode and retention period for increased security:

  To protect cluster data from external threats and unauthorized access, during the configuration process, you can configure the lockdown mode for the cluster, normal being the default mode.

• Create a default storage pool after the configuration:

  A default storage pool is created automatically at the time of configuration. You no longer need to create a storage pool post configuration.