Virtualisation offers shortcut to cloud computing
Virtualisation offers shortcut to cloud computing
Moving to cloud computing could be made simpler through the use of virtualisation.
This is according to principal analyst with Information Technology Intelligence Consulting, Laura DiDio. Speaking to CIO magazine, Ms DiDio described virtualisation as a “stepladder to the cloud”. She explained that many companies might even have the option “waiting on standby” for them in their data centre.
The analyst added that virtualisation allows the user to get in to a “cloud state of mind” before fully committing to the change. This makes it easier to work out what areas are important, such as maintenance, reliability, lower costs and the option of scalability with growth.
Before moving to virtualisation or the cloud, however, it is worth evaluating the performance of any existing networks and considering setting up a leased line or MPLS network.
Indeed, as one of her five main points to think about before moving to the cloud, Ms DiDio advised companies thinking about moving to the private cloud to factor in the cost of hardware and systems. For example, it could be “problematic” if you intend on installing newer applications on five-year-old servers.
“You want to make sure you have up-to-date hardware and software, enough to carry the planned workloads,” she remarked. “You have to make sure that you correctly configure the virtual and cloud environments.”
It is also worth considering exactly what benefits you hope to achieve by moving applications and processes to the cloud before you take the leap, the expert advised. In other top tips, the analyst suggested researching the right business model for your users and your company; finding out where your data is being stored and how comfortable you are with the way it will be handled; and becoming aware of the costs and investment required in maintaining a private cloud for security and control should you wish to do so.
