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Servers & Desktops
Whether its big iron or mini-computers, the processing "box" is the foundation of our enterprise computing infrastructure. Gain best practice information on acquiring, managing, and upgrading server and desktop systems. Forecast - Trends & PredictionsFifteen Servers Marks the Virtualization Tipping PointAs virtual machines become more ubiquitous both vendors and managers will need to focus on managing the utility infrastructure to get the most value for this technology. Innovative IT decision-makers should be using this technology to create more agile and cost-effective data center infrastructures. IBM System z: Growing Versatility on a Fading PlatformMainframe computers, in particular the IBM System z (360/370/390 family), have been a mainstay of enterprise computing for over 40 years. Now “lower-end” computers are truly moving into mainframe territory and System z shipments are fading – fast. Mainframes will continue to find a home in many enterprises, but will be relegated more to legacy applications than new business requirements. IBM System z Refresh: Mainframe Tries to Go MainstreamWith its recently updated System z, IBM continues to extend the mainframe capabilities to better support applications not normally associated with mainframes. The System z may be a consolidation option for mid-sized enterprises with Java, Linux, and transaction processing applications. Is IBM Leaving the Server Hardware Business?Recent revenue declines in some IBM server platforms and its licensing of rights to Lenovo to manufacture and resell certain x-Series servers has led to speculation that IBM is leaving the server hardware space. Info-Tech believes that off-loading the low-end market is a good move, allowing IBM to focus where it has traditionally done best – larger enterprises. Over-hyped Blade Servers Start to Make Sense for the Mid-marketBlade servers are a recent phenomenon in data centers. They are the next iteration in the migration from minicomputers of the 1980s to the commodity rack-mount microcomputer servers of today. Blade servers are currently found in larger data centers, but are migrating to enterprises of all sizes. The Future of Thin Client DeploymentRecent developments such as remotely accessed, centrally hosted, virtual PCs are breathing new life into thin client as a desktop computing option. While thin clients are still far from displacing traditional “fat” PCs, older approaches to thin client – such as traditional Citrix and Terminal Services solutions – are clearly being displaced. The Rise of the Heterogeneous Server OS EnvironmentThe server operating system market is not a zero-sum game. Over 95% of enterprises with more than 500 employees use Microsoft Windows. Between 40% and 47% also run Linux, UNIX, or an IBM operating system (OS). As single-pane-of-glass management becomes a reality, expect IT shops to increasingly deploy diverse operating systems. Virtualization and iSCSI a Match Made for SMEsServer virtualization and iSCSI networked storage are emerging as a natural match particularly for small and mid-sized enterprises (SMEs) buying their first storage area network. Info-Tech recommends that enterprises considering a storage area network (SAN) purchase should consider broader strategic goals of availability, recoverability, and infrastructure flexibility. Virtualization is a likely... Apple in the Server Room?The only place you're ever going to see an Apple machine is on the desktop, right? Maybe not. Find out what Apple's Xserve has to add to your server... IBM: From Big Blue to Baby BlueIBM’s recent server and services announcements reflect renewed interest in the small- and mid-market. Info-Tech believes these SME plays are good for... Understand - Technology InsightsA Threefold Path to Virtual Desktop NirvanaVirtualization has definite potential for helping the enterprise reduce PC management complexity while increasing operating efficiency and security. Enterprises with large and growing desktop deployments should investigate the potential of hosting, streaming, and distributing virtualized software instances either separately or in combination. Battle of the Hypervisors: How Do They Compare?A hypervisor is the software that carves a single physical computer into multiple virtual machines. As competition heats up in the virtualization space, competitors will argue the relative strengths of their hypervisors. This note reviews how a hypevisor works, as well as what differentiates the leading competitors: ESX Server, Xen, and the “coming soon” Microsoft Hyper-V. Blade Servers: Big Savings in a Small BoxBlade servers have been components of many larger enterprise data centers for several years now. Infrastructure simplification and the reduction in physical space for the same processing power make blade servers clear leaders for data center consolidation and expansion. Blade Switches: Cutting-Edge Virtual InfrastructureHP and IBM are pushing the blade technology as a main focus going forward. To this end both vendors are incorporating some leading-edge infrastructure virtualization and management tools in their blade server management platforms. Know the technology to understand the growing advantages of blade servers in the data center. Cisco Application-Oriented Networking: The Network Is In ControlCisco announced its Intelligent Information Network (IIN) some years ago. As a major part of that initiative, Application-Oriented Network (AON) components are beginning to see the light of day. IIN and AON move significantly more intelligence from middleware servers onto Cisco network devices. Depending on the level of trust an enterprise has in Cisco as a middleware and software integration... Clap On, Clap Off Service ProcessorsEnterprise-class servers now come equipped with a service processor that allows IT staff to access, monitor, and control the server regardless of the state of the primary CPU and OS. Understand and make best use of this critical data center component. Consolidate Blade Server Management with a Single PointBlade server technology has changed the physical structure of servers in the data center. For most management functions, blade servers are handled like their rack-mount brethren. However, built-in management modules provide local control of server blades and I/O modules. With a single point of control for a group of processor blades, management operations can be simplified. FANs: The Other Networked Storage VirtualizationNetworked storage file virtualization can lead to better utilization of Network Attached Storage (NAS) appliances and other storage servers. This technology – which is also sometimes called NAS virtualization and File Area Networks (FANs) – will be attractive to larger enterprises with extensive NAS investment looking for a consolidation alternative to Storage Area Networks (SANs). HP Grows Its Mid-Range ServerVirtualization and consolidation are moving enterprises towards more powerful machines and multi-socket multi-core x64-based servers provide the necessary processing power. HP’s new eight-socket ProLiantDL785 G5 offers needed computing power for consolidation and virtualization, with on-board storage for standalone solutions. In This Corner, the Contender, Cisco's VFrame Data Center Platform!The VFrame Data Center appliance begins Cisco’s trip into integrated server and network infrastructure virtualization. The appliance allows the rapid repurposing of servers whether they are running virtualized or one-off applications. For larger data centers based on Cisco networking, the appliance provides enhanced server management capabilities. Load Balancers Drive Rock-Solid App StabilityLoad balancing technologies have evolved from simple IP/port selection to sophisticated deep packet inspection. Use load balancing appliances for enterprise applications to improve application availability and scalability, reduce the number of servers required, and offer additional security and performance enhancements. Load Balancers: Persistence Pays OffLoad balancing technology has advanced from simple distribution of traffic between multiple servers to the intelligent inspection of packet data to determine which server should service which user. By creating persistent connections between a user and a server, the load balancers improve the ability of the enterprise to support clients and to ensure successful completion of transactions. Peeling the Virtualization Onion without TearsLeading virtualization vendors such as VMware, Citrix, and Microsoft want to offer one-stop virtualization “from the desktop to the data center.” These comprehensive approaches involve more than one kind of virtual abstraction. Understand what differentiates the various forms of virtualization. Server Management Tools Automate Capabilities and Improve EfficiencyAs the number of servers grows within an enterprise, the time and effort needed to manage those servers grows even more rapidly. Server management tools provide automated capabilities to ease the pain of day-to-day provisioning, patching, and operational support. Understanding the functions offered by server management tools allows the IT staff to select the right tool for the job. Storage Virtualization: A Critical Component of Utility InfrastructureIn an ideal storage management world, all storage beyond the network switch can be abstracted into logical storage volumes. However, in the real world, storage systems are differentiated by proprietary management. Despite concerns over vendor lock-in, IT decision makers should consider the real storage management benefits that can come from virtualization. Virtual SAN: Providing a SAN Without a SANA storage area network (SAN) is a critical requirement for providing virtual servers with high availability and dynamic provisioning. However, the same technology that virtualizes servers can also be used to create a virtual SAN array. Smaller enterprises and branch office virtual machine deployment can reap significant savings from a virtual SAN. Why Enterprises Must Adopt Data Center AutomationData center automation is a potent method for achieving the intelligent automation of IT tasks, such as configuration and asset management, policy management, and process automation. In order to capitalize on its benefits, approach data center automation as both a process and a technology. XP vs. Vista: Consider the Power SavingsEnterprises with an abundance of Windows XP desktop PCs and laptops can reduce power consumption costs and carbon dioxide emissions by half in switching to Windows Vista. When considering a total cost of ownership analysis for a Vista implementation, IT decision makers should understand how the two operating systems affect power consumption and consider the savings. Microsoft Server 2008: Clusters Hold TogetherWith the introduction of Windows Server 2008, Microsoft has improved its built-in failover cluster capabilities. With enhanced setup and management and improved reliability, the Server 2008 Enterprise and Data Center editions support mission-critical and high availability enterprise applications. Together at Last: Virtualization and Thin ClientsInfo-Tech sees increased interest in thin client deployments as the technology that supports the back end evolves with virtualization. With more options than ever before, understanding the technology is essential to choosing the right solution to suit enterprise needs. IBM System z: A Setting SunThe IBM System z mainframe continues to show its ability to evolve and encompass new operating systems and applications even as shipments and revenue... Is a Workgroup Server for You?A workgroup server provides file sharing, Web hosting, e-mail retrieval, and remote access from one server for a minimal investment. Small... Strategize - Strategy & PlanningAre You a Blade Server Candidate?Blade servers are reaching into enterprise data centers of all sizes. The decision on when it is time to integrate blade servers into the infrastructure varies by the specific enterprise situation. Certain factors must be considered by all enterprises to determine when, and if, it is time for the data center to begin employing blade servers. Automated Configuration Software Requirements TemplateAutomating configuration streamlines repetitive maintenance and support tasks, paving the way for substantial cost savings. Use this downloadable Word template to document the enterprise’s requirements of automated configuration software. Craft a Green IT Action PlanLearn to build a Green IT Action Plan by setting realistic goals and choosing projects that IT can perform autonomously. The resulting environmental benefits and cost savings help prove that more extensive projects are both feasible and necessary. Use this knowledge to promote cross-enterprise collaboration on leading green initiatives. Drop Manual Config to Avoid Repetitive Process StrainAutomating configuration is a tactic for streamlining repetitive maintenance and support tasks, thereby reducing the need for manual intervention when provisioning, patching, or otherwise managing IT assets. Develop a strategy for tackling automated configuration management to capitalize on potential cost savings. First Steps in Automated Reporting: Get a Fix on BaselinesAutomated reporting is a fundamental component of data center automation that ensures timely and accurate measurement of a wide variety of IT operations such as asset management, configuration, compliance, and other tasks. Inform business decisions and reduce costs by automating the enterprise’s reporting processes. HP Blade Management: Insights for BladeSystem BundleHP’s System Insight Manager provides comprehensive capabilities to monitor and control servers both locally and remotely. The Insight Control Environment for BladeSystem integrates the functions needed to manage the blade servers into a complete package. For shops using HP servers, the combined System Insight Manager and Insight Control packages provide a highly capable management toolset. IBM iSeries Servers: What Are They Good For?The IBM iSeries servers provide a high-performance, high-reliability solution for enterprise applications designed for the i5/OS environment. For enterprises using this platform, or considering it, the question becomes “what is the long term viability of the iSeries for new and future developments?” Long-Term Return Is Key to Thin Client DeploymentDevelopments in thin client and virtualization have renewed interest in thin client as a replacement for PCs. Those looking into the technology should not make acquisition cost savings their reason for investing in thin client. Long-term maintenance and operational savings remain the most important planning consideration. Rethink E-Mail Provisioning: In-House or Hosted?Falling price-points from e-mail hosting providers require enterprises to rethink e-mail provisioning strategy. Enterprises can make an informed decision by determining if hosted e-mail is an option and comparing the cost of in-house e-mail provisioning against hosted e-mail prices. Server OS Casting Call: Let Costs Direct SelectionIT leaders deploying application servers may face a choice between operating systems. Evaluate the business suitability of operating system candidates by examining costs, the quality and availability of support, and the product’s rate of change. Server OS Casting Call: Let the Role Direct SelectionIT leaders implementing best-of-breed application solutions often face a choice between server operating systems (OS) to support each service. Enterprises should evaluate the role suitability of OS candidates by examining the technical, licensing, and interoperability features. Determine whether each prospective OS meets these needs and short-list accordingly. Servers: Consolidate, Migrate, and Save MoneyThe consolidation of servers within the data center provides well defined savings for the enterprise. By creating and implementing a clearly defined migration strategy for existing servers, the effectiveness and efficiency of any consolidation strategy can be further enhanced. Systems Logs Come Under ScrutinyEvery enterprise has an obligation to protect customer data, financial information, and intellectual property from theft, deletion, or modification from hackers, saboteurs, and insiders. One important method for demonstrating that the enterprise did everything in its power to prevent or mitigate attacks is through the use of event logs. Use Chargebacks and SLAs to Wean Business Units Off the BoxConsolidating and virtualizing servers that were previously distributed means weaning internal customers off the idea of owning server boxes. Chargebacks and SLAs provide a solid framework for communicating and negotiating with business leaders, and managing expectations in a centralized data center model. Virtualization Takes Server Consolidation to the Next LevelVirtualization of x86/x64 architecture is not a strategy; it is a tactical measure that addresses a specific impediment to achieve strategic goals in server consolidation. Virtual machine isolation enables more applications to run on fewer physical processors. In addition to savings in hardware acquisition and maintenance, virtualization sets the stage for building a responsive utility... Vista Migration: Survey the Water Before Diving InAlmost a year after its initial release, many enterprises are still reluctant to take the Vista plunge. While security enhancements are the main reason for adoption, for most this upgrade appears to be an incremental improvement, rather than a “must have.” Enterprises embarking on a Vista migration should look to those companies that have already deployed for best practices, planning tips, and... When Blades Don't Cut ITBlade servers are encroaching on rack-mount installations in data centers of all sizes. While this server platform meets many needs, it has not reached the point of replacing all other server types. Recognize the real limits of blade servers in specific environments to ensure that blades are used where appropriate and other servers are used where they best fit. Four Blade Server GotchasInfo-Tech Research Group has shifted its position on blade server implementations over the previous eighteen months from neutral to recommend.... Turn Microsoft Roadmaps Into GPSUnderstanding Microsoft’s various product roadmaps can help predict future capabilities. This information is crucial in planning upgrades, deciding... Compare - Product ComparisonBlade ServersBlade servers are finding their way into enterprises of all sizes, with the smallest and the largest businesses leading the migration. The primary vendors of blade systems offer a variety of chassis, processors, input/output options and functionality. Selecting the right blade architecture can be difficult since many of the key product features appear similar between vendors. This comparison... Avoid Linux Filesystem FlusterLinux server administrators face many options when deciding on a filesystem. Most of the clutter can be cleared away to reveal a few main choices.... Evaluate - Product EvaluationBlade Servers: Dell PowerEdge 1955The Dell PowerEdge 1955 offers a low priced blade server solution with excellent pricing and reasonable scalability. The Dell PowerEdge 1955 is a solid choice for any enterprise that is searching for a server consolidation or high-availability blade server solution. Blade Servers: Egenera BladeFrame ESEgenera has focused on the high availability and mission-critical solutions in its marketing and product strategy. The BladeFrame ES only ships in a high availability configuration, unlike the other evaluated vendors. As a result, the BladeFrame ES should be considered by enterprises that require a highly versatile and powerful mission-critical blade server solution. Blade Servers: HP BladeSystem c-ClassHP provides a well balanced blade server solution. The selection of processor blades, I/O options, and enhancements to the blade chassis allow migration from a basic server consolidation configuration to a fully mission-critical solution. Unlike the previous, incompatible p-Class blade design, the new c-Class chassis provides room for future growth without a fork-lift upgrade. With reasonable... Blade Servers: IBM BladeCenter HIBM provides a well balanced blade server solution. The same chassis and processor blades can be used for both the entry level server consolidation solution and, with optional components, migrate to a fully mission critical or high performance processing environment. The IBM BladeCenter ranks in the Leader Zone for good reason. Blade Servers: Sun Blade 8000The Sun Blade 8000 product is heavily focused on high performance computing environments with pricing to match. While this current product is not appropriate for most SMEs it can be a good fit for environments where there is a need for very high performance computing. Dell Sharpens Blade Server OfferingDell Computers recently introduced its next generation of blade server technology. The Dell PE M1000e chassis and new processor blades offer a very... IBM System i5 Rebate Up to $215,000IBM is offering a rebate of up to $215,000 for qualifying System i Servers. IT leaders should investigate their eligibility for existing or planned... Wise Up: Avoid GroupWiseNovell’s GroupWise product has a long history and a loyal following. Product features are impressive. However, a shrinking ecosystem, declining... Xen Gives VMWare a Run for Its MoneyIn processor virtualization, VMware has pretty much run the table for the past three years. Xen, an open source virtualization alternative, has been... Select - Selection AdviceBlade Servers: Cutting Through the OptionsWith the wide range of proprietary blade servers available, it can be difficult to decide on a vendor and a platform. The newest offerings from the major server vendors have leveled the playing field while improving the options for the enterprise. By focusing on key requirements, the enterprise can narrow the field quickly. Desktop Management RFP TemplateWhether you’re buying a packaged desktop management solution or one that requires customization, an RFP is a key weapon in your solution selection arsenal. Use this editable RFP template to complete the process. Dueling Servers: Blades and Racks Compete to Cut CostsBlade server costs continue to become more competitive when compared with similar rack-mount servers. Do a head-to-head comparison of both direct and indirect costs to see whether moving to blades will meet the vendor marketing hype for direct savings. E-Mail Archiving: Build That Better MousetrapMany enterprises are investigating e-mail archiving solutions. Before speaking to vendors, use this note to help identify business drivers and build an implementation strategy. Then approach vendors that offer product features tailored to meet the goals of the enterprise. Lock Down Desktop Management Needs with a Rigorous RFPIT departments must adopt desktop management software as a means of increasing efficiency and cutting costs. These guidelines, coupled with the Desktop Management Software RFP Template, will ensure that the software selection process progresses smoothly toward an optimal result. Mid-Range Servers: Dell, HP, IBM and SunThe major server vendors offer a wide variety of mid-range x64-based servers. The hardware options, prices and functionality are similar and are rarely differentiators for the small to mid-sized enterprise (SME). Select a mid-range server based on the few differentiators between the vendors such as support, existing relationships, and management functions. Mid-Range Servers: Dig Deep to DifferentiateMid-range servers, using multi-core x64-based processors, provide the performance and functionality for the majority of enterprise applications. Because these servers are based on industry standard technologies, the differentiation between vendor products is minimal. As a result, enterprises should select a vendor and product based heavily on local support capabilities, price and on-going... Oracle Foray into Linux Support Market Threatens Red HatThe Linux world was rocked recently with the news that software giant Oracle is now also offering support for Red Hat Enterprise Linux server OS, and at a lower price than Red Hat. While rumors suggesting that Oracle’s foray into this market will spell the end for Red Hat are over-exaggerated, Oracle does offer a viable alternative. Carefully examine the options before selecting a support vendor... Oracle vs. Red Hat LicensingEnterprises running Linux in the data center – particularly those using Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) – will want to reevaluate their licensing and support options in light of the new offerings from Oracle. This tool provides key information to help IT leaders make the right choice. Per Incident Server Repairs Undercut Service PlansEnterprises must evaluate whether it makes more financial sense to purchase an extended service plan on x86 server hardware or to pay per incident for hardware service. Use the accompanying worksheet to determine the point at which the enterprise should pay for expedited service. Selecting Linux: Novell SUSENovell SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) is enjoying widespread adoption including significant presence in the largest enterprises on IBM mainframes. Novell is positioned to offer enterprise-wide support from the server room to the desktop. Enterprises looking for the best tool for the job should evaluate Novell SUSE Enterprise Linux. Selecting Linux: Red Hat Enterprise LinuxRed Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is carving out market space in enterprises of all sizes, especially the mid-market. RHEL customers say the operating system excels at supporting enterprise-grade and mission-critical Web applications, network infrastructure, and clustering. Enterprises looking for the best tool for the job should evaluate Red Hat Enterprise Linux. Selecting the Right Blade ServerThe wide variety of highly capable blade servers from top vendors makes selecting the right blade server more challenging. Balance acquisition, management, support, and energy costs with specific business requirements to select the right blade server for enterprise data center requirements. Vendor Landscape: E-Mail Server Alternatives to Microsoft ExchangeMicrosoft Exchange is the clear leader in the on-premises e-mail server market. But, competitors provide advantages in simplicity, price, functionality, and hardware requirements. Evaluate vendors discussed in this note when considering e-mail server greenfield deployments, replacements, and even Exchange deployment expansions. Vendor Landscape: VMware Not the Only Path to TakeVMware is currently the 800-pound gorilla of virtualization for x86 server infrastructure. For due diligence in virtualization spending, decision makers need to know why VMware is currently a leader, who the potential rivals are, and how the situation is likely to change going forward. This note maps the current landscape for virtual server software and includes Microsoft, Virtual Iron, VMware,... |