How to Improve Your Network with Server Virtualization
Server virtualization involves the partitioning of a single server’s resources so that it simultaneously operates as two or more isolated virtual servers. These virtual servers run independently of each other to ensure that your server resources are being fully utilized. At the same time, a virtualized server allows you to run multiple operating systems on one physical server. And if your business depends on running multiple applications simultaneously, you can dedicate a unique virtual machine for each specific application to maximize efficiency. On top of streamlining performance, virtualization offers an ideal strategy for organizations looking to minimize the number of physical devices their network requires.
Could Virtualization Benefit Your Business?
While virtualization sounds like an appealing server solution, you first need to determine if your organization is a viable candidate for virtualized servers. If you’ve encountered any of the following challenges, chances are your operations could be optimized with a server virtualization solution.
- Your organization depends on multiple applications and operating systems for day-to-day operations.
- Your IT staff spends a significant amount of time installing, patching, administering, supporting, and updating applications on your existing servers.
- You’ve had problems with application downtime and complex backup systems in the past.
- You’re looking to eventually migrate your business-critical services to a cloud computing platform.
- You’ve invested in server infrastructure, and now you want to maximize the performance potential of your server resources.
Still not sure if your business could benefit from virtualization? Contact the virtualization experts at VTG to help you decide.
The Journey Towards Virtualization
As Cisco Systems suggests, the process towards virtualization is more than purchasing and installing an off-the-shelf solution; it’s close to a technological journey. That’s why you shouldn’t be afraid to ask for help along the way. Virtualization is a powerful technology, but it’s easy to get in over your head. No matter which direction you choose, here’s a rough outline of what that journey will look like:
Evaluate Your Existing System and Future Goals
The first step is looking at your current system requirements and performance. Consider critical services like mail, files servers, domains services, and database applications to pinpoint where and how virtualization could be used to make improvements. Once you’ve clarified that virtualization aligns with your growth goals for the future, you can start building a more concrete virtualization plan.
Calculate Payoff
At this stage, you’ll want to start assembling concrete facts and figures for how investing in virtualized infrastructure can improve your bottom line. If you need to convince key decision makers, the more numbers and statistics you have on your side, the better of a case you’ll be able to make. For example, let’s say your company has a new application that is needed to run a new business unit. Instead of researching and buying new server hardware to host it, VTG can use existing, unused hardware capacity to host the new software at little to no cost.
Build a Strong Foundation
Now it’s time to start building the backbone of your virtualized system. The critical components to consider here include:
- Network switches
- Hypervisor virtualization software
- Servers
- Storage devices
Execute
Once you’ve acquired all of the necessary software and hardware for virtualization, the transition may take anywhere from two or three weeks to two or three months depending on your resources and the scale of your operation. If your in-house staff doesn’t have the skillset required to deploy a virtualized solution, don’t hesitate to bring in professionals.
Are you interested in exploring how a virtual server solution could optimize your day-to-day operations? Contact VTG today to learn more.