Companies looking at virtualization solutions need storage solutions that are flexible
Virtualization has been a boon to enterprise as it makes IT operations more efficient. Some like its green qualities as virtualization saves on energy consumption, while others appreciate the storage capacity, as well as the data recovery solutions for if disaster strikes.
However, the virtual environment is invisible, and with that come more challenges in making sure it runs smoothly. The cloud might be simple to setup, but it becomes more complex over time. In addition, the more machines and data involved, the more difficult it can be to monitor for space, CPU spikes, network security and other indicators.
“If there is a bug or a discrepancy, I need to know that there’s a problem before my customer does. And though that is the biggest challenge, it’s also a great opportunity,” Russ Caldwell, CTO, Emcien Corporation said.
One of those challenges is making sure storage in the virtualized environment is adequate. “We focus on storage and database environments that scale as the customers grow,” said Caldwell. “Determining how fast customers grow and change is the biggest factor for determining the adequate storage size.”
Companies moving to the cloud also have to change how they think about networking. “It can be hard to understand how network connection works when there aren’t wires to simply plug it into a box, but instead virtual, invisible connections that need to be managed through APIs or online interfaces,” said Caldwell. One of the challenges for a company with multiple clients is keeping client data separate from one another. Grouping machines together and isolating them in their own network is the best approach in tackling this challenge. Using excellent monitoring tools smartly can ensure that the network is as reliable as possible.
To avoid the challenges involved in virtualization, Ross provided the following tips:
- Plan on virtualizing everything
- Standardize everything
- Ensure network capabilities are met.
- Implement resource monitoring.
- Implement a decommissioning process.
- Plan for backup and disaster recovery.
- Train your team based on what the management will look like, not on the migration.
By: Cloud Ventures
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