Linux System Administration

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Chapter 9: Virtualization in the Modern Enterprise

Virtualization: A Passing Fad?

Many analysts say they will sit on the sidelines and wait to see whether Linux virtual-

ization takes hold. As a system administrator, you might want to weigh the risks and

rewards of mastering this technology. Virtualization is not the equivalent of IBM’s

introduction of the PC or Microsoft’s introduction of distributed filesystems. The

impact of hypervisor technology doesn’t even compare to that of ERP programs such

as SAP, PeopleSoft, or Oracle Financials.

In any case, technologies such as Xen and VMware have undeniable benefits. Virtual-

ization improves the utilization of servers and reduces overprovisioning of hardware

by consolidating system resources. By running your current software in a virtual

environment, you can not only preserve your investment in that software but take

greater advantage of low-cost, industry-standard servers.

Hopefully, this chapter has provided you with the knowledge and skills you need to

implement your own virtualized environments. You now have the opportunity to

experiment and have fun with free virtualization technology. Doing so could posi-

tion you as a specialist in a field few understand.

Figure 9-9. VMware virtual hardware configuration for Fedora Core 5