[itdiscuss] Quick question re: virtualization

[Dan Barber]

Lou,
I would go VMware hands-down. They are the pros, and you want pros when it comes to your backbone. Thoughts: one single server can probably handle all of your needs. I usually get a 1:10+ consolidation ratio, especially with the power out there. Here would be my suggestion for a budget:

*         Dell PowerEdge2970 2x2.4GHz Six-Core, 24GB RAM, 4 NICs = ~$6,000

*         SAN ~$10,000 (Either Dell MD3000i or AX4-5i)

*         ESX License: Use ESXi and it is free; buy support for about $1,000.

Until you get to the place where you have multiple hosts, it doesn't seem to make sense to go through the expense of Virtual Center and such...just a thought. It is really very cheap to virtualize these days compared to what it used to be.

Also, if you want to forgo the SAN (and I am not sure why you need it with only one single host), you could run most everything off of local storage and save a bundle.

Dan

From: discuss-bounces at itdiscuss.org [mailto:discuss-bounces at itdiscuss.org] On Behalf Of Lou Hablas
Sent: Friday, August 07, 2009 3:10 PM
To: IT Discussion Forum
Subject: [itdiscuss] Quick question re: virtualization

All:

I've been asked to give an umbrella number to somebody in our org. re: virtualizing six of our servers and leave a bit of room to grow.  At this point, I'm not up-to-speed on the best of breed or other options related to virtualization - I guess this goes with already wearing too many hats.

Speaking in ballpark figures, what is a reasonable number to toss out?  Last time I did any significant homework on this subject, we were looking at an investment north of $28K to purchase the necessary hardware.

Re: software, is VMWare still the best route to go or should I seriously consider Microsoft's offering?

Again, not looking for numbers to the penny - just something that can be used for guidance as we start rolling on the upcoming budget discussion.  Any feedback based upon your personal experiences would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks,

Lou


Louis Hablas

Director, IT

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