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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