If you haven’t taken your data, applications and processes virtual, it’s likely in your long-term plan. Virtualization delivers considerable benefits for the organization ready to take that leap. But how do you ensure that it’s both safe and effective? Let’s borrow from some industry experts to lay out the right plan.
According to a recent post in Automation World, following three simple tips can help you avoid pitfalls and get the most benefit out of your virtualized environment. Let’s examine those tips and how they might apply in your environment.
Details Matter When You Copy
It’s easy to copy a virtual machine as it’s simply a collection of files on a hard drive. You have the ability to create a library of computer nodes and then duplicate them as necessary to build new systems or expand those that already exist. The problem, however, is that a virtual node that is connected to a network or exposed to files from USB drives, could be infected with malware. Once you copy the node, you’re also copying the risk. To avoid this problem, learn the template management features of the virtualization software and create new virtual machines and templates from the known fresh media.
Stick to the Rules
The copying practice doesn’t just copy the risk, it also copies the operating system and all attached software. It’s OK to have backup copies in place, but it’s not OK to break the rules when it comes to software licensing. You have to have the appropriate licenses if you want multiple copies of PCs to run at the same time. Besides, nothing’s worse than a time-out during your startup.
Put Protection in Place
While virtualization can deliver significant benefits, it’s also just as vulnerable to hackers and viruses as your “real” environment. While the solutions you selected may have added capabilities to ensure the protection of your environment, you need to put additional solutions in place. For instance, you need cybersecurity solutions and data center power protection to ensure your system is always available when you need it.
This is where working with a proven vendor can deliver significant value. Server Technology (News - Alert), for instance, has a proven history in providing data center power protection in an industry where this step is necessary. The company not only delivers the connectivity necessary for continuous operations, it also supports client efforts toward virtualization. If you’re ready to make this migration, talk to a vendor with demonstrated success.
Edited by Rory J. Thompson