Time For Virtualization at Home
Although I really need to upgrade my network diagram to reflect some major changes since 2006, it is effective enough to indicate the need for server virtualization even on a small network. I currently have 4 servers which are operational, and another which I want to bring online shortly, but I would be far better served if I put in a couple of rack mount systems with 8GB RAM and went with virtualized server instances using either VMWare Server or Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 R2.
(I could easily run everything on one box, but even my home network deserves some redundancy... 
)
It would make a big difference in my power consumption, my need for cooling, and -- the one which bugs my wife the most -- space consumption. (Actually, I'm pretty sure that it's the noise that bugs her the most, but I don't think my solution will fix that problem, because I will need bigger boxes to host the virtual servers.)
I recently obtained a very nice Dell Inspiron 531 desktop, and it's so quiet, that my wife has openly suggested that I swap all the other systems out to get peace and quiet down in my lab... We shall see...
I'm definitely going to revise the upgrade plans that I have started for my home network so that virtualization is a core part of the infrastructure. I have a few boxes that have served me well over the years (including a P2-400 which is still functioning as a domain controller), but it's time to save my poor ears and possibly reduce my power bill at the same time.
I'll lay out my plan for two rack mount systems, plus an iSCSI SAN for storage in another post this month.
Remember: Virtualization is not just for enterprises anymore...
About Logik!
Andrew S. Baker aka ASB aka Logik!
Andrew is an accomplished, hands-on IT Executive with a solid track record of providing timely and cost-effective business solutions using technology. With over 16 years experience in Information Technology, he has proven to be effective both as a Team Leader and as an individual contributor in designing, deploying, securing and maintaining enterprise networks.
His personal interests include Astronomy, Basketball, Bible Study, Chess, Comics, Computers,
Family Life Ministries, Reading and Strategy/Role Playing games...
Some of his contributions include several whitepapers on technology and Information Security, the UltraTech Knowledgebase, various postings to technology mailing lists and forums, active participation on LinkedIn Answers, along with a number of interviews for articles published in industry magazines.
A condensed version of
Andrew's current resume is available here.