What is Raft?

What is Raft?

Raft is a consensus algorithm designed for managing a replicated log. It helps ensure that multiple servers agree on the same data.

How does Raft differ from Paxos?

Raft is generally considered easier to understand than Paxos. It organizes the consensus process into a leader-follower model, making it more intuitive.

What are the main components of the Raft algorithm?

The main components of Raft include leader election, log replication, and safety mechanisms to ensure consistency.

Can you explain leader election in Raft?

In Raft, a leader is elected through a voting process. If a follower does not hear from the leader within a timeout, it can become a candidate and request votes from other nodes.

Is Raft used in any real-world applications?

Yes, Raft is used in various distributed systems, including databases like etcd and Consul, to maintain consistency across nodes.