Server virtualization technologies for x86-based HP BladeSystem & HP ProLiant servers
Virtual machine technology is the most widely understood and adopted form of server virtualization technology today. Virtual machine technology is a powerful capability that can reduce costs and power use while improving resource utilization. In x86 environments, there are two basic approaches to virtual machine technology: full virtualization, and paravirtualization. This technology brief describes both methods and explains how the virtualization technologies within x86-based processors assist virtual machine software. This technology brief describes several infrastructure considerations when using virtual machine technology with industry-standard (x86-based) servers.
Yet beyond the creation of virtual machines, there are more opportunities available with server virtualization. HP is applying virtualization to other aspects of the data center and uniting virtual and physical resource management to create truly adaptive and flexible infrastructures. HP is integrating virtual machine technology from third-party vendors into ProLiant servers to enable virtual machines directly out-of-the-box and to simplify virtual machine management. However, not all applications are well-suited for virtual machines today, particularly those with high I/O or deterministic latency requirements.
With Virtual Connect technology, HP has applied virtualization to the server connections to local area networks and storage area networks to simplify a myriad of common data center processes. HP has also introduced the concept of logical servers, which bring together Virtual Connect, virtual machine, and integrated management technologies so IT administrators can create and manage virtual machines and physical machines in the same manner throughout the lifecycle of a server. The paper describes how HP management software can be combined with HP and third-party virtualization technologies to create end-to-end virtualized solutions that promote operational efficiency.
Get pdf Server virtualization technologies for x86-based HP BladeSystem & HP ProLiant servers
