Chapter 20.

CloudPlatform API

The CloudPlatform API is a low level API that has been used to implement the CloudPlatform web UIs. It is also a good basis for implementing other popular APIs such as EC2/S3 and emerging DMTF standards.

Many CloudPlatform API calls are asynchronous. These will return a Job ID immediately when called. This Job ID can be used to query the status of the job later. Also, status calls on impacted resources will provide some indication of their state.

The API has a REST-like query basis and returns results in XML or JSON.

See the Developer’s Guide and the API Reference.

20.1. Provisioning and Authentication API

CloudPlatform expects that a customer will have their own user provisioning infrastructure. It provides APIs to integrate with these existing systems where the systems call out to CloudPlatform to add/ remove users..

CloudPlatform supports pluggable authenticators. By default, CloudPlatform assumes it is provisioned with the user’s password, and as a result authentication is done locally. However, external authentication is possible as well. For example, see Using an LDAP Server for User Authentication .

20.2. Allocators

CloudPlatform enables administrators to write custom allocators that will choose the Host to place a new guest and the storage host from which to allocate guest virtual disk images.

20.3. User Data and Meta Data

CloudPlatform provides API access to attach up to 32KB of user data to a deployed VM. Deployed VMs also have access to instance metadata via the virtual router.

User data can be accessed once the IP address of the virtual router is known. Once the IP address is known, use the following steps to access the user data:

1.Run the following command to find the virtual router.

#cat /var/lib/dhclient/dhclient-eth0.leases grep dhcp-server-identifier tail -1

2.Access user data by running the following command using the result of the above command

#curl http://10.1.1.1/latest/user-data

Meta Data can be accessed similarly, using a URL of the form http://10.1.1.1/latest/meta-data/ {metadata type}. (For backwards compatibility, the previous URL http://10.1.1.1/latest/{metadata type} is also supported.) For metadata type, use one of the following:

•service-offering. A description of the VMs service offering

•availability-zone. The Zone name

•local-ipv4. The guest IP of the VM

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Citrix Systems 4.2 manual CloudPlatform API, Provisioning and Authentication API, Allocators, User Data and Meta Data
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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.
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