You've practically already earned your diploma in network virtualization and are well-versed in virtualization benefits and downfalls. Now it's time to take the next step in eking out the ROI as well as branching out into more elegant strategies like desktop virtualization. Executives tend to believe that virtualizing networks and branching out into the cloud should be as easy as snapping one's fingers and cost about as much as an Extra Value Meal (blame the PR folks for this). The reality is just not that simple. With workstation virtualization, you'll really need to do some fancy footwork to show the folks in the boardroom how desktop virtualization benefits the bottom line.
Desktop virtualization alone is going to be a $5 billion industry in the next five years, according to a recent study conducted by
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ABI Research. Just as with many emerging technologies that reshape IT, this isn't a party where you want to show up fashionably late. It's time to sharpen the pencils and crack open the books, because the real work has just begun. We have a virtualization crib sheet that will allow you to craft your desktop infrastructure virtualization strategies, as well as bone up on virtualization benefits overall.
Here are 10 recent virtualization tips to get you on the road to success:
- From A to Xen: Your options for virtual desktops
Jonathan Hassell walks through the ins and outs of embracing a virtual desktop infrastructure.
- Private clouds can maximize your IT services
Our experts detail five reasons why your IT department can't afford to ignore private clouds any longer.
- Policies, tools and best practices guide for virtualization management
One-stop shopping for third-party virtualization management tools, refining the automation process and more.
- Virtual server management vs. physical servers: What's the difference?
The key is in provisioning, chargeback, security and skills. We go over the finer points in this virtual Coke/Pepsi challenge.
- Reducing virtualization storage requirements with thin provisioning
Virtualization storage management muddies the water but thin provisioning -- sometimes called dynamic provisioning -- is the key.
- Which virtualization licensing model is right for you?
One of the fastest ways to sink your ROI is to drop the ball on virtualization licensing compliance. Here are several tips on avoiding penalties and negotiating your software licensing terms like a champ.
- How one school district adopted virtual Exchange 2010
Virtual Exchange 2010 reaps huge rewards for one school district, increasing user confidence in the system while streamlining IT processes.
- Virtual machine performance tools equal better ROI
The days of the "gut check" for virtual machine performance are falling to the wayside as IT directors seek better network virtualization ROI. Virtual machine experts weigh in on their strategies for ensuring that ROI can be communicated back to the business.
- Reasons to adopt desktop virtualization
Need more convincing? While desktop infrastructure virtualization isn't as obvious an ROI as network server virtualization, it makes sense when looking at the larger picture. Here's why.
- Virtual machine monitoring and security guide
Troubleshooting tips for mistakes that can kill virtual machine performance, expert tips on monitoring physical and virtual environments and so much more.
Let us know what you think about the story; email Wendy Schuchart, Site Editor.
This was first published in June 2011
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