R&M Data Center Handbook

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The advance of virtualization can include the following effects on data center cabling:
• Connections that are higher performance, so-called “fat pipes”, are required because of increased
network traffic (data volumes).
• More connections are required for each server and between switches because of aggregation (trunking).
• An increased number of additional redundant connections are created as a result of increased demands
on data center failure safety.
3.7.1. Implementing Server / Storage / Client Virtualization
The primary goal of virtualization is to provide the user a layer of abstraction that isolates him or her from the
actual hardware – i.e. computing power and disk space. A logical layer is implemented between users and
resources so as to hide the physical hardware environment. In the process, every user is led to believe (as best as
possible) that he or she is the sole user of a resource. Multiple heterogeneous hardware resources are combined
into one homogeneous environment. It is generally the operating system’s job in this process to manage in a way
that is invisible and transparent to users.
The level of capacity utilization for all infrastructure components increases in data centers as a result of the
increased use of virtual systems like blade servers and Enterprise Cloud Storage. For example, where servers
were previously loaded to only 15 to 25 percent, this value increases to 70 or 80 percent in a virtualized
environment. As a result, systems consume significantly more power and in turn generate many times more waste
heat.
The adjacent graphic
shows the development
of server compaction.
Client Virtualization, or so-called desktop virtualization, is a result of the ongoing development of Server and
Storage Virtualization. In this process, a complete PC desktop is virtualized in the data center instead of just an
individual component or application. This is a process that allows multiple users to execute application programs
on a remote computer simultaneously and independent of one another.
The virtualization of workstations involves individually configured operating system instances that are provided for
individual users through a host. Each user therefore works in his or her own virtual system environment that in
principle behaves like one complete local computer. This is a different process from providing a terminal server in
which multiple users share resources in a specially configured operating system.
The advantages of a virtual client lie in its individuality and its ability to run hosts at a central location. Resources
are optimized through the common use of hardware.
Disadvantages arise as a result of operating systems which are provided redundantly (and the associated
demand for resources), as well as the necessity of providing network communication to operate these systems.
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