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Virtualization

   
 

Server virtualization is a technology that allows multiple servers to run on the same hardware, appearing as if they were distinct physical systems but in reality sharing computer processors, memory and storage. The approach allows more efficient utilization of computing resources and allows a data center to achieve even greater efficiencies, once the maximum density of rackmounted systems has been reached. While theoretically there are substantial cost-savings that can be realized, the initial investment required to set up a virtual server cluster has made substantial deployment of a service difficult. The challenge for IT Services is two-fold: making the financial case for server virtualization, incorporating the cost savings gained from not having to build out the data center; and promoting the service so that clients understand its benefits and are motivated to make the switch from owning a physical server.

  
 

The advantages of server virtualization include:

More effective utilization of hardware: The different needs of various servers (such as web servers and application servers) may be readily accommodated on the same system, making the most of CPU, memory, and disk resources.

Reduced downtime: Because virtual servers can migrate to different hardware systems without downtime, physical hardware can be taken offline for maintenance without any disruption to virtual machines. However, virtual servers still need upgrades and patches, so administration is still required.

Quicker provisioning: Obtaining physical machines often takes two to three weeks via OrderIT, while a virtual server is typically available in a week.

Vision

Server virtualization is a proven technology that has matured over the last 10 years and is starting to gain momentum. VMWare is an established vendor of virtualization software and there are a number of other viable solutions, including Microsoft and Xen. Major corporations have invested in the technology and are offering services utilizing virtual servers (Amazon's EC2, for example).

  
 

Here are the Top 5 reasons to adopt virtualization:

Server Consolidation and Infrastructure Optimization
Virtualization makes it possible to achieve significantly higher levels of resource utilization through shared infrastructure and the breakdown of the model legacy “one application for each server”.
Cost reduction with physical infrastructure:
With virtualization, you can reduce the number of servers and other hardware-related IT in the Data Center. This leads to reductions in physical infrastructure, power and cooling requirements, resulting in significantly lower IT costs.
Operational Flexibility and improved Responsiveness:
Virtualization offers a new way of managing IT infrastructure and can help IT administrators spend less time on repetitive tasks such as provisioning, configuration, monitoring and maintenance.
Increased application availability and improved business continuity:
Eliminate planned downtime and recover quickly from unplanned outages with the ability to perform backups in a safe manner and migrate entire virtual environments without interfering with ongoing services.
Improved Desktop Management and Security:
Deploy and monitor secure desktop environments, where end users can access locally or remotely, with or without network connection, on almost any desktop machine, laptop or tablet PC.