Amazon Web Service Interface

Chapter 15.

15.1. Amazon Web Services EC2 Compatible Interface

CloudPlatform can translate Amazon Web Services (AWS) API calls to native CloudPlatform API calls so that users can continue using existing AWS-compatible tools. This translation service runs as a separate web application in the same tomcat server as the management server of CloudPlatform, listening on the same port. This Amazon EC2-compatible API is accessible through a SOAP web service and the AWS Query API. The AWS Java SDK and AWS PHP SDK are both supported by the Query API.

Limitations:

•Supported only in zones that use basic networking.

•Available in fresh installations of CloudPlatform 3.0.3 and newer. Not available through upgrade of previous versions.

•If you need to support features such as elastic IP, set up a Citrix NetScaler to provide this service. The commands such as ec2-associate-address will not work without EIP setup. Users running VMs in this zone will be using the NetScaler-enabled network offering (DefaultSharedNetscalerEIP and ELBNetworkOffering).

15.2. System Requirements

•This interface complies with Amazon's WDSL version dated August 15, 2012, available athttp:// ec2.amazonaws.com/doc/2012-08-15/.

•Compatible with the EC2 command-line tools EC2 tools v. 1.6.2.0, which can be downloaded at http://s3.amazonaws.com/ec2-downloads/ec2-api-tools-1.6.2.0.zip.

15.3. Enabling the AWS API Compatible Interface

The software that provides AWS API compatibility is installed along with CloudPlatform. However, you must enable the feature and perform some setup steps.

1.Set the global configuration parameter enable.ec2.api to true. See Section 5.5, “Setting Configuration Parameters”.

2.Create a set of CloudPlatform service offerings with names that match the Amazon service offerings. You can do this through the CloudPlatform UI as described in the Administration Guide.

Warning

Be sure you have included the Amazon default service offering, m1.small.

3.If you did not already do so when you set the configuration parameter in step 1, restart the Management Server.

#service cloudstack-management restart

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4.2 specifications

Citrix Systems, a leading provider of virtualization solutions and cloud computing technologies, released version 4.2 of its popular software, Citrix XenApp, which was previously known as Presentation Server. This version marked a significant evolution in providing users with remote access to applications and desktops, emphasizing simplicity, performance, and security.

One of the standout features of Citrix XenApp 4.2 is its improved application streaming capabilities. This technology allows applications to be delivered to users in real-time, reducing the need for extensive local installations and enhancing the user experience. With application streaming, administrators can efficiently manage applications on a central server while ensuring that users have immediate access to the necessary tools.

Another highlight of this version is the enhanced security measures put in place to protect sensitive data. Citrix XenApp 4.2 includes support for SSL encryption, providing a secure communication channel for data transmitted between the server and clients. This is particularly crucial for businesses that need to comply with strict data protection regulations. Additionally, the integration of endpoint security features ensures that unauthorized access to applications is minimized.

Performance enhancements are also a critical focus in this release. Citrix optimized the delivery of applications over various network conditions, ensuring that users experience minimal latency regardless of their location. This was achieved through the incorporation of SmartAccess and SmartControl technologies, which allow administrators to set policies based on user roles, device types, and network conditions. This level of granularity enables organization-wide security without compromising on usability.

The user experience was further improved with a revamped interface, making it easier for end-users to access their applications and data. Simplified menus, clear navigation paths, and the ability to customize user settings contributed to a more efficient workflow, allowing users to focus on their tasks rather than struggling with the software.

Finally, Citrix XenApp 4.2 was designed to be highly scalable. Organizations of all sizes could deploy this solution to deliver applications efficiently, adapting to their specific needs as their user base grows or changes. This flexibility is crucial for businesses looking to future-proof their IT investments while maintaining optimal performance.

In summary, Citrix XenApp 4.2 stands out with its enhanced application streaming, robust security features, improved performance under varying conditions, user-friendly interface, and scalability, making it an ideal choice for organizations seeking to leverage virtualization for remote access to applications and desktops.