Virtualization helps SE Ohio schools improve data center efficiency
VMware seminar draws participants from across region
May 14, 2009
By Sean O'Malley
OHIO's Office of Information Technology knows that, when it comes to computers, more is not necessarily better.
Limited space and air conditioning capacity, rising energy costs and regulatory demands rapidly are making the old "one computer, one server" model obsolete in data centers. At the same time, calls to reduce energy consumption and cut down on hardware costs are pushing many to re-evaluate their desktop PC purchasing habits.
Enter virtualization. By taking advantage of a recent, state-wide licensing agreement with VMware, OIT administrators have begun packing multiple server applications onto fewer computers, greatly reducing power consumption and administrative overhead. The agreement, brokered through OARnet, allows higher education, K-12 and state government agencies to purchase VMware licenses and support at a deep discount.
Along with data center technology, VMware also can be used to host virtual PC labs using small, energy efficient "thin clients" instead of full blown personal computers. With no hard drive, CPU or any moving parts, thin clients consume between 30 and 80 percent less energy. Operating systems, applications and disk storage all get delivered over the network.
In a typical data center, moving to VMware can reduce the number of physical machines by a factor of ten. According to OIT graduate assistant Greg Campbell, switching from an average PC to a thin client can cut power expenditures in half.
To encourage schools throughout the region to make the best use of this technology, OIT hosted a one-day seminar on May 14, 2009. Participants included Marietta College, OARnet, Washington State Community College, and the Athens City School District.
According to Chief Information Officer Brice Bible, Ohio University is well positioned to lead the way in regional virtualization. "This is an example of regional collaboration that helps us all be more effective," Bible said. "We look forward to partnering even more with our colleagues around southeast Ohio."
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