System Virtualization
Virtualization is an emerging technology in business today. Operating system virtualization refers to the use of specialized software to allow server computers to run multiple instances of different operating systems concurrently, allowing applications that require dissimilar or dedicated operating systems to run on one hardware system without interfering with each other. The idea that the same secure and full-featured operating systems can be built and implemented in minutes rather than hours is remarkable; saving businesses time, money, and resources.
Biff Duncan consultants promote the use of VMware ESX server for virtualization implementations, as it is robust and is most efficient at optimizing resource allocation. VMware ESX server runs as a bare metal hypervisor and requires very limited system resources, devoting the remaining resources for the virtual machine(s). Each virtual machine represents a complete system; with processors, memory, networking, storage and BIOS. Windows, Linux, Solaris or NetWare operating systems and software applications can run in a virtualized environment without any special modification AND the virtual machines won't interfere with each other either.
Here's a quick breakdown of the important benefits of virtualization:
Efficient Resource Utilization
Hardware capacity can be used more effectively, reducing the costs to deploy multiple physical servers. Less equipment generally means less power consumption, which is cost-effective AND good for the environment.
Increased Security
Applications can be deployed to separate virtual machines, which are then delegated to specific users/groups instead of everyone. As a result, users can only access the resources required to perform their job. Efficiency & Security blend well for a more productive work environment.
Rapid Provisioning
Rather than dedicated disks, the persistent storage used by virtual machines are usually a single file or logical volume, which can be used to create new virtual machines rapidly. The time required to deploy new applications is reduced significantly as a result, plus extra servers normally required for system testing/development can be created using the same hardware, then immediately removed when no longer required.
Portability
Virtual machines are easily moved from system to system, allowing for easier maintenance cycles (without taking systems offline) and improved business continuity. In the event a server’s hardware fails (or an upgrade is required), an abundance of time is saved as a complete system rebuild is not required. Moving the virtual server to a new system is quick, so employees can get back to work ASAP!
 |
 |
 |