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Technology
Spotlight: Server Virtualization – What is it and why use it?
You may have
heard mention of “server virtualization” in a WFAE radio spot or heard
us mention it recently in passing. So what is it? Basically,
virtualization is a means of running one or more servers on a single
server. Each server runs from a special hard disk file called a Virtual
Hard Disk or VHD. Virtualization allows multiple servers to run on a
single server by creating a “generic” server environment which is
non-specific to the server hardware. By making the server “virtual” on
VHD file, you remove the dependency on a specific model server such as
Dell SC440, HP ML350, etc. The benefit is this VHD virtual server file
is totally portable, enabling us to take a working image of your system
offsite, host on a different server, move it to better hardware, etc.
Additionally, you may run multiple servers on a single platform, saving
power, and server hardware costs. Development environments may run
independently of production servers, and can co-exist on the same
server.
In the event of server failure or disaster such as fire/flood,
we are able load the VHD file on one of our spare servers or on a
different server at your office!
The portability
of the VHD “entire server on file” means that your business can be
safely transported offsite as a backup, loaded to a new system for
improved performance, placed on a development server for testing new
software or updates….the possibilities are endless.
What are the requirements? (list pricing before discounts)
·
A server with Intel server processor
supporting VT (Virtualization Technology) - $750 and up.
·
Windows 2008 R2 with Hyper-V:
$800-$1000
·
Microsoft System Center Virtual
Machine Manager: $500 (for conversion of older servers)
·
Optional external SATA drive bay
with SATA drive(s) for backup: $150-$300 (size dependent)
Sounds expensive
until you realize just how critical your servers are to your business:
email, project and customer files, photos and documentation, contact and
corporate databases.
Any lower cost options?—Yes! EwT
has (2) Windows Hyper-V servers, which are available to be placed on
your site temporarily. For 3-4 hours labor per server and an expensive
hard drive, we’ll convert your systems to VHD server files and hand you
back a functional copy of your working server environment for your
offsite location.
Cost: $650-$1,000 (depending on hard drive size required)
In the event of system failure, we’ll bring a working Hyper-V server to
your office, recover the changed files from your last backup and host
your system until your server can be serviced & repaired. If you’re
interested in “rolling your own” Microsoft Hyper-V Server environment,
we can handle that too!
Feel free to ask us more about our Virtualization services, or have us
evaluate your disaster plan. |
