03-28-2007 16:58
janiquec
Why Create a Virtual Machine Library?
A virtual machine library is a managed collection of baseline virtual machines, typically controlled by a centralized virtual machine library management team, and used to rapidly provision new production, test, development, and training environments. Instead of having to install each virtual machine from scratch or use a complicated tool to restore an image, virtual machines can be ready to boot and execute almost immediately. The virtual machine library management team is responsible for creating and keeping virtual machines up to date with patches and service packs, removing unnecessary files, compacting virtual machines to conserve space, and managing virtual machine configuration file settings.
Core Features and Benefits
Centralized virtual machine management team
• Single source of virtual machines
• Compulsory standards
• Reduces duplication of effort
Centralized testing and installation of updates and service packs for baseline virtual machines
• Reduces duplication of effort
• More standard patch levels across environments
Sysprepped virtual machines
• Ensures unique virtual machine identity
• Enables custom configuration of guest operating system and faster deployment
Pre-built scenarios involving multiple virtual machines
• Reduces post provisioning steps
• Eliminates rework
Automation
• Post configuration steps can be automated to decrease human error and repetitive effort
License tracking
• Ability to track the number of new virtual machines, as well as operating system version and license requirements
• Ability to track the number of application licenses required based on provisioned virtual machines
Standards
• Develop and enforce standards on configuration, installed applications, and naming conventions, to cite just a few critical areas
As you can see, there are many benefits to deploying a virtual machine library to provision a virtualized infrastructure.
Technorati tags: Microsoft Virtual Server, Virtualization, Virtual, Virtual Network, Virtual Machine
Share this article in del.icio.us | Digg | reddit
Filed under: Virtualization, Virtual Server, Virtual Machine Library