Server virtualization is a force to be reckoned with, and a double-edged sword. The aspects that make it appealing enough to IT leaders is the fact that they can launch multiple applications and operating systems without causing too much stress to their physical infrastructure. On the other hand, tasks such as launching virtual machines can be done in a fraction of the time that it would take when using physical servers.
As such, it is no surprise that many companies have embraced server virtualization rates that exceed 75%, according to Gartner. Sadly, server virtualization is a two-faced venture and the benefit galore is only but the favorable part of it all. With these benefits comes the burden of managing the servers in the virtual environment along with the security risks involved in walking the virtualization path.
Here is a guide to help you in succeeding in virtual server management:
What’s Tough about Virtual Server Management?
Managing virtual servers is more complex in the virtual environments and working with server configuration monitoring tools that can play the part is essential. Among the biggest challenge that comes with the virtual environment is virtual machine sprawls where staff members deploy new VMs just because it is convenient to do so. As such, it becomes easier for a configuration drift to occur in the virtual environment than it would in the physical environment.
To counter this, IT professionals need to come up with templates that will guide anyone who would like to deploy VMs, and this should also include recent patches and updates. Identifying the root cause of performance drops can also be tough, and it only gets tougher as the complexity of the issue increases. This is because the IT professionals will also need to understand how issues with the physical server might manifest themselves in the virtual servers and vice versa.
Dealing With Virtual Server Sprawl
Virtual sprawls are a recipe for disaster in the IT world. They make it tough to manage the wide scope of virtual infrastructure in the line of launching patches and updates. In case a single virtual server fails to be patched when a time-sensitive vulnerability is discovered, then it might lead to the detriment of the entire IT infrastructure.
No one should be allowed to launch a virtual server without the intervention of the entrusted IT team. The team will work to ensure that the server is audited and that its launch complies with both the internal and government regulations. In most cases, focusing on server lifecycle management from the launch to retirement will suffice to keep the server and the entire IT infrastructure health.
Traditional Tools Might Still Work
Yes, traditional tools will work almost as effectively in managing physical servers as they would work in managing virtual servers. The only set back is that they may not embrace modern server visualization techniques which might be more than valuable in managing the virtual environments. Visualization ensures that the IT staff can gauge the health of their infrastructure and troubleshoot problems with a greater understanding of the system.
This visual representation includes charts and dashboards, which can be found in server monitoring tools meant for virtual servers. However, for IT teams that aren’t ready to invest in such tools, the conventional tools might still play the part.
You Cannot Rely On the Hypervisor Provided Tools
Most virtual hypervisors will come with inbuilt virtual server management tools, but they aren’t always effective enough in achieving high server management levels. They might not suffice since most aren’t interoperable with other hypervisors. Sadly, most IT departments will use multiple hypervisors. This increases the need for a heterogeneous solution.
Conclusion
Any IT department looking to make the most out of virtual infrastructure should also be ready to embrace the challenges ahead. The trick is to invest in the right tools and have the right server deployment policies. Consider the guide above to thrive in virtual server management.
