Chapter 13. Working with Templates

Templates are uploaded based on a URL. HTTP is the supported access protocol. Templates are frequently large files. You can optionally gzip them to decrease upload times.

To upload a template:

1.In the left navigation bar, click Templates.

2.Click Register Template.

3.Provide the following in the dialog box:

Name and Description. These will be shown in the UI, so choose something descriptive.

URL. The Management Server will download the file from the specified URL, such as http:// my.web.server/filename.vhd.gz.

Zone. Choose the zone where you want the template to be available. If your CloudPlatform deployment includes multiple zones running the same hypervisor (the one selected in the Hypervisor field later in this dialog box), and you want the template to be available in all of them, choose All Zones.

OS Type: This helps CloudPlatform and the hypervisor perform certain operations and make assumptions that improve the performance of the guest. Select one of the following:

If the operating system of the stopped VM is listed, choose it.

If the OS type of the stopped VM is not listed, choose Other.

Note

Generally you should not choose an older version of the OS than the version in the image. For example, choosing CentOS 5.4 to support a CentOS 6.2 image will in general not work. In those cases you should choose Other.

Hypervisor: The supported hypervisors are listed. Select the desired one.

Format. The format of the template upload file, such as VHD or OVA.

Password Enabled. Choose Yes if your template has the CloudPlatform password change script installed. See Adding Password Management to Your Templates

Extractable. Choose Yes if the template is available for extraction. If this option is selected, end users can download a full image of a template.

Public. Choose Yes to make this template accessible to all users of this CloudPlatform installation. The template will appear in the Community Templates list. See Section 13.5, “Private and Public Templates”.

Featured. Choose Yes if you would like this template to be more prominent for users to select. The template will appear in the Featured Templates list. Only an administrator can make a template Featured.

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Citrix Systems 4.2 manual Working with Templates

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.