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Although CPUs, memory, disk I/O and network connectivity are all vital elements of any server, experts agree that there are few notable "must-have" components in a virtualized server. Each resource need only be adequate to meet expected workload demands in your specific data center environment.
For example, you may need to upgrade or add processors, but it's generally not necessary to deploy the latest processors for virtualization. You're fine as long as the installed processors support the minimum (preferably recommended) requirements of each operating system and application.
Processors. A current processor can potentially operate anywhere from three to five VMs per core, though a conservative rule of thumb is two workloads per CPU core, so plan your server resources accordingly. For example, if a server will be running four workloads with headroom for another four, you can probably deploy the server with four dual-core or two quad-core processors.
Existing processors typically do not need to be upgraded unless they are too old to support the planned workloads, or you demand hardware-assist features tailored for virtualization, such as Intel VT or AMD V, technologies or hardware acceleration for virtual workload migration. "I have a PowerEdge 850 laying here on my floor today," said Dave Sobel, CEO of Evolve Technologies, a solution provider headquartered in Fairfax, Va, and author of Virtualization: Defined; A Primer for the SMB Consultant.
Memory. A server must provide ample memory space for the OS/hypervisor and every virtual machine. The amount of memory needed can vary dramatically between virtual wor...
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