Virtualization is a process that allows you to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single physical server, reducing costs, improving performance, and enhancing security. However, before you can enjoy the benefits of virtualization, you need to configure your server properly. Here are the key steps to follow:
Not all servers are suitable for virtualization. You need to make sure that your server has enough CPU, memory, disk space, and network bandwidth to support the virtual machines (VMs) you want to create. You also need to check that your server's processor supports hardware-assisted virtualization, such as Intel VT or AMD-V, which improves the speed and efficiency of virtualization. You can use tools like CPU-Z or Speccy to verify your hardware specifications and compatibility.
Investing time in selecting the correct hardware for your organization's needs, the type of chassis if you are not doing the virtualization process in a standalone server, and the importance of calculating the quantity and quality of your (VMs). The network card is available for the servers, type, and easy-to-handle installation of RAM and CPUs. Changing Fans or any other parts in case of problems and keeping the operation working smoothly when everything is set up.
A hypervisor is a software layer that creates and manages the VMs on your server. There are two types of hypervisors: Type 1 and Type 2. Type 1 hypervisors, also known as bare-metal or native hypervisors, run directly on the server hardware, without an underlying operating system. They offer better performance, security, and scalability, but they require more technical skills and configuration. Examples of Type 1 hypervisors are VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V, and Citrix XenServer. Type 2 hypervisors, also known as hosted or application hypervisors, run on top of an existing operating system, such as Windows or Linux. They are easier to install and use, but they have lower performance, security, and scalability. Examples of Type 2 hypervisors are VMware Workstation, Oracle VirtualBox, and Parallels Desktop.
For me, the easiest to go is with VMware because of their experience and stability. Other hypervisors may not give you the reliability you need. Only choose another one if your operation is too small or for educational purposes.
Once you have chosen a hypervisor, you need to install it on your server. Depending on the type of hypervisor, you may need to boot from a CD/DVD, a USB drive, or a network server. You may also need to partition your disk, format your file system, and set up your network settings. After the installation, you need to configure the hypervisor settings, such as the host name, the IP address, the password, the time zone, and the updates. You may also need to install additional tools or drivers to enable features like backup, migration, or monitoring.
The next step is to create the VMs on your server. You can use the hypervisor's graphical user interface (GUI) or command-line interface (CLI) to create, edit, delete, start, stop, or suspend the VMs. You can also use templates or clones to create multiple VMs with similar settings. You need to specify the VM name, the operating system, the disk size, the memory size, the CPU cores, and the network adapters for each VM. You also need to install the guest operating system and the applications on each VM, either from a CD/DVD, a USB drive, an ISO file, or a network server. You may also need to install additional tools or drivers to enable features like integration, optimization, or customization.
Learning to use Terraform is key in this new world of automation, is a bit complicated at first but when you do understand the process it allows you to handle big enterprises. Besides what other people may mention is important to don't forget to put all the best configurations of network card, CPU cores, RAM, and storage for your needs without exceeding the quantity of resources invested.
The final step is to monitor and optimize the VMs on your server. You need to keep track of the performance, availability, and utilization of the VMs and the host server, using tools like the hypervisor's dashboard, logs, or alerts. You also need to troubleshoot any issues, such as errors, crashes, or slowdowns, using tools like the hypervisor's console, diagnostics, or support. You may also need to adjust the VM settings, such as the disk size, the memory size, the CPU cores, and the network adapters, to improve the efficiency, reliability, and security of the VMs. You may also need to perform tasks like backup, restore, migration, or replication, to protect the data and ensure the continuity of the VMs.
Ensure that you configure a centralized management tool for your hypervisor . The common example is the vCenter for the ESXi hypervisor , System Center for HyperV and Prism Central for the Nutanix AHV