Virtualized Storage to Optimize Virtualized Servers and Desktops

Virtualization can offer strategic value to organizations in a number of arenas. By creating an abstraction layer between operating systems and physical hardware, IT administrators can consolidate server capacity, parcel out computing resources as needed, and streamline system provisioning and deployment, all while improving service levels and network security. Virtualization can also facilitate support for multiple operating systems, broadened choices among vendors and solutions, and employee empowerment across organizations, regardless of location. In devising virtualization solutions, however, IT managers need to seize upon a major opportunity – the integration of the virtualization platform and the shared storage backend – to realize fully virtualization’s efficiencies and economies. With their unparalleled ease-of-use, Dell EqualLogic PS Series SAN arrays provide a flexible means for virtualizing storage, offering flexible management of storage resources, graceful scaling, reduced complexity, and lower total costs of ownership (TCO).

Single-Console Management of Virtualized Servers, Machines and Storage

Citrix® XenServer Dell Edition™ is a powerful virtualization solution that enables efficient resource consolidation, utilization, dynamic provisioning, and integrated systems management. Citrix XenDesktop uses On Demand Desktop technology to dynamically assemble a virtual desktop each time a user logs on, balancing control and flexibility in virtualized desktop environments. Both platforms integrate directly with EqualLogic SANs via the Citrix® XenServer Direct Storage Adapter for EqualLogic.

This integration provides SAN and server functionality via a single management console, and even combines certain cross-platform workflows, such as provisioning of virtual machines, into simple, point-and-click tasks. This integration and automation leverages the strengths of both the Citrix and Dell platforms for more effective handling and better overall performance. The XenServer Direct Storage Adapter for EqualLogic even integrates such capabilities as High Availability (HA) and Automated Disaster Recovery with the SAN resources, leveraging the benefits of the iSCSI SAN protocol and unique design features at the core of the Dell EqualLogic PS Series SANs.

Virtualized Storage to realize the full benefit of Server or Desktop Virtualization

Whether deployed with Citrix XenServer, XenDesktop, or both, EqualLogic PS Series SANs simplify the tasks and routines by which applications and data are stored and protected. Unlike other SAN platforms, the EqualLogic PS Series arrays share processor and storage resources dynamically, and perform load-balancing continuously, allowing more efficient use of these vital assets. Snapshot, clone and replication features further bolster the value of EqualLogic SANs in Citrix-virtualized environments by protecting mission-critical data otherwise made more vulnerable by consolidation and centralization.