Abstract: A load balancing algorithm and cluster configuration details are stored at each of a set of namespace nodes of a cluster hosting a deduplicated file system. Upon a client connecting to a namespace node, a server-initiated communication channel is established between the namespace node and the client over which updates to the load balancing algorithm, cluster configuration details, or both are sent. The load balancing algorithm and cluster configuration details are sent to the client, thereby allowing the client to determine according to the load balancing algorithm and cluster configuration details, which particular namespace node should handle a particular file system operation. Thereafter, each connected client is immediately notified of changes to the cluster such as node or service additions or deletions or software upgrades to the cluster so that each client can use the updated information to conduct load balancing.