When it concerns data center operations there’s a lot to take into account. From the physical infrastructure to software abstraction, to optimization of hardware and more There’s a wide variety of factors that can influence the overall performance of a business and productivity.
However, one way to simplify things is by using virtualization of data centers. With virtualization, it’s easier for IT administrators to change and manage IT resources on demand -which wouldn’t be possible without the technology. Automation does more than speed processes, but also helps ensure that policies are consistently enforced and that the proper configurations are used.
The technology behind virtualization involves mixing storage devices, servers and networking equipment to create a system where multiple IT functions run on one server. This lets you optimize server usage and reduce costs for hardware. The ability to dynamically allocate resources enhances scalability because it avoids under-utilized capacity.
Another benefit of virtualization is the ease at the ability to implement new IT services and applications. Deploying a virtual machine only takes minutes, as opposed to the hours and days it takes to set up hardware. This flexibility lets businesses quickly adapt to market demands and gain a competitive advantage.
However, IT administrators should keep in mind that a highly virtualized data center does not come without its dangers. For instance, if IT personnel are too nonchalant about setting up new VMs which could lead to VM sprawl. This over-utilization of resources and hardware can cause performance degradation, increased costs and a variety of attack surfaces to defend.