Server virtualization is a deceptively simple method for organizing a customer's network into manageable pieces cheaply and efficiently. However, the temptation to create an excessive number of virtual servers can lead to networking issues that can cripple an otherwise healthy network with the resulting glut of IP addresses, subnets and VLANs. Value-added resellers would be wise to keep these issues in mind when designing their customer's network virtualization implementation.
Networking and virtual server sprawl: The hidden costs of server virtualization
Virtualized servers have unique networking concerns. In a virtual network, you will see a larger than average number of IP addresses, more than usual subnets and VLANs, high packets per second, greater susceptibility to switch port problems, greater need to plan machine per host density and MAC address management issues.
Avoiding the problems associated with the almost inevitable virtual machine sprawl requires diligence on the part of the value-added reseller working to keep their customer's network clean and efficient.
Get more info about the dangers to your customer's network posed by virtual server implementation and maintenance.
