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Virtualization

Virtual machine operations have been in existence for roughly 40 years emerging from academia in the mid to late 60’s to an overwhelming wave of server technologies, system level applications, as well as infrastructure management code which all talk about virtualization.  The question arises is what is it and why do I care or should care.  There are many reasons that virtual machine operations are coming to the forefront:

• Server consolidation where small applications can share a single machine and provide a higher utilization rate
• Multi operating system utilization across a server or servers for application performance
• More efficient multi core processor utilization with shared application use
• Datacenter power and cooling where energy threshold limits are being exceeded.

Virtualization is a major paradigm shift from conventional single-purpose application servers to a pool of computing power that encompasses a few or numerous servers, enabling notable performance gains and a lessening of the electrical energy used to run them.  Because the virtualization of IT infrastructure now is so pervasive and integral to the daily operation of data centers, it would behoove IT managers to take a look at the next five years and get a projection of where trends in this technology might be heading.

The logic of server virtualization in data centers is very compelling.  Businesses are empowered to consolidate all their underutilized Windows, Linux, and Solaris systems sprawled throughout their data centers and remote locations, and in doing so they save on precious floor space and electrical draw.  Over time, these efficiencies can add up to substantial savings on a company's bottom line.

Generally, virtual servers are now being hosted on reliable hardware platforms that are designed to meet the intense network, performance and security demands that come with virtualization.  Because the hardware and software are now ready for prime time, server virtualization in the data center is growing.  However, a virtualization layer adds complexity, and the consolidation brings intensity, These two unavoidable attributes have a swag of hidden costs and substantive downsides and risks, so the compelling value proposition of virtualization does not apply to all situations, and for smaller data centers and computer rooms, it generally does not apply at all.

HRG has been engaged in virtualization analysis and formulation of corporate strategies over the years and our staff of IT experts are familiar with Virtualization concepts and solution providers both from a vendor view as well as an end user view.  Some things to consider:

• Do you have the IT staff to deal with increased complexity?
• Are you sure that virtualization will, in reality, deliver you a positive ROI?
• Are you resourced to manage the likely increase in demand?
• Are your data center layout and power and cooling facilities/management sophisticated enough to manage consolidation?
• What impact will virtualization have on your level of service?
• Do you have the tools to be able to monitor/ manage your new sensitive complex environment (rack-side and remotely)?

HRG has a history of success in delivering results, offering unparalleled advice and assistance in developing long-range strategies, as well as hands-on implementation of short-term tactical solutions.

HRG offers services designed to meet the needs for extending your current applications and data.  These include tailored best practices for application and virtualization management, planning services for computational levels to meet your current and future needs as well as auditing services for your computing center operations.

HRG has an on-site service suite covering not only the physical plant such as power and cooling applications and data, but HRG can also analyze your system architecture and make recommendations to insure that your performance levels and data management needs are secure and always available.

HRG’s philosophy is simple: HRG values integrity, confidentiality and results.  HRG’s clients are successful organizations requiring specific, accurate assessment of technology trends, and advice to differentiate them from the competition and achieve their financial goals.