How to Build a Virtualization- Optimized Infrastructure


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HE INFLUX of server and storage consolidation, virtualization, and cloud technologies into the data center has forced new pressures on traditional


network designs. Many organizations are fi nding their data center networks increasingly harder to manage, more vulnerable to attacks, and more expensive to maintain. In order to achieve the performance, agility, and security needed to support the next-generation demands of virtualization, it’s necessary to rethink the way your network operates.


Not Your Everyday Traffi c Jam Modern networks are the focus of more attention because virtualization is reshaping the way data center traffi c fl ows. Today’s core business applications have very different traffi c patterns than those of yesterday. Instead of traditional client- to-server traffi c, these new virtualization-based applications draw information from a variety of sources—touching servers, storage appliances, and multiple networking components before returning the information to the requestor. With so many interactions taking place through these routes, there are a great deal of effi ciency and security concerns simply because the network wasn’t designed to work the way it’s being used.


Simplify and Shed Those Layers Hierarchical networks that were built to meet the needs of traditional client-server software deployment cannot deliver the levels of performance and scalability required by virtualized environments. The solution is to build fl atter, simpler networks that can support high-volume server-to-server traffi c patterns. By removing layers from your data center network, you can greatly simplify traffi c fl ow while using less equipment and


cabling—a nice cost-saving bonus. You’ll want to complement this redesign of the network with a refresh of your management systems and security practices as well. Unifying your security and administration across virtualized and physical resources is an integral part of achieving the IT agility and fl exibility you need to support a dynamic data center.


Start Smart, Finish First If you’re experiencing network performance issues, it’s tempting to just throw more bandwidth at the problem. While that’s a viable short-term solution, it won’t help you much in the long run. Virtualization is here to stay, so you need a network that’s built for its strengths. An excellent place to start is a network assessment. You’ll learn where your performance issues are and how to resolve them with smart investments in key areas. You’ll also want a network security assessment to increase dependability and reduce potential threats.


An optimized network doesn’t have to be a budget buster. In fact, there are signifi cant cost savings inherent in a simpler, more effi cient network. It’s possible to drastically reduce cabling and rack requirements, as well as lower power and cooling costs. If you’d like to reduce TCO and boost performance with a virtualization-ready network, GovConnection can help. Our experts are ready to assess your environment and design, build, and implement a solution that fi ts your unique needs.


TURN THE PAGE to learn more about virtualization- optimized networking components, and then call your Account Manager to get started building a next-generation network.


Enhance Your Network with the Right Assessment


GovConnection’s assessments give you a clear picture of your infrastructure, helping you understand the capabilities and shortcomings of your existing network.


Our Network Assessment identifi es equipment that needs to be upgraded and pinpoints performance issues such as bottlenecks. Once network issues are uncovered, we can provide remediation plans to fi x the problems and optimize your network’s performance.


Our Security Assessment can provide you with a better understanding of your organization’s current security-focused infrastructure and present recommendations on how to meet the needs and challenges of the network security landscape.


Call your Account Manager today to get started!


1.800.800.0019 www.govconnection.com/assessments


1.800.800.0019


www.govconnection.com


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