Virtualization: We’re Not Done Yet
Yes, a virtual server can be launched in minutes, and, by running apps on virtual servers and consolidating underutilized hardware, corporate data centers get maximum value from the equipment.
And yes, it brings a lot of flexibility and efficiency, but virtualization alone doesn’t cure the underlying problem “and in some ways adds to it.” That’s the opinion in a recent article on virtualization – and it’s not the first time I’ve heard it.
What the piece is saying, virtually, so to speak, is that we’re not done – by any means. That’s because companies still have huge data infrastructures to maintain, and now they have these virtualization costs and management issues. The real improvement comes with the addition of cloud computing. The cloud delivers infrastructure on demand as an accessible, cost-effective service.
An interesting point made in the story is that, with the progression of cloud computing, IT managers need to decide which apps belong where. It’s a critical choice.
“The real issue is determining where each application truly belongs,” according to the article. “Some apps are simply not suitable for any cloud, while others, at least for the foreseeable future, belong in the private cloud. Some applications are candidates for the public cloud, but the appropriate services aren’t ready yet. And some data center applications could be moved to a public cloud now or in the very near future.”
Sounds like some complicated decisions need to be made, but I think they’ll get easier as cloud computing, services, bandwidth, reliability and other issues become more palatable to businesses. I’m an optimist.
