Definition

horizontal scalability

Horizontal scalability is the ability to connect multiple hardware or software entities, such as servers, so that they work as a single logical unit. In the case of servers, for example, you could increase the speed or availability of the logical unit by adding more servers, typically using clustering and load balancing. On the other hand, vertical scalability is the ability to increase capacity by adding resources to an existing entity.

Related glossary terms: spend management, vertical scalability, business technology management (BTM), pure-play, winner's curse, e-brokerage, employee assistance program (EAP), CEO (Chief Executive Officer), learning management system (LMS), out of the box

This was last updated in June 2007

Posted by: Margaret Rouse

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