Installing VMware for CloudPlatform

Chapter 10.

If you want to use the VMware vSphere hypervisor to run guest virtual machines, install vSphere on the host(s) in your cloud.

10.1. System Requirements for vSphere Hosts

10.1.1. Software requirements

•vSphere and vCenter, both version 5.0 or 5.1.

vSphere Standard is recommended. Note however that customers need to consider the CPU constraints in place with vSphere licensing. See http://www.vmware.com/files/pdf/ vsphere_pricing.pdf and discuss with your VMware sales representative.

vCenter Server Standard is recommended.

•Be sure all the hotfixes provided by the hypervisor vendor are applied. Track the release of hypervisor patches through your hypervisor vendor's support channel, and apply patches as soon as possible after they are released. CloudPlatform will not track or notify you of required hypervisor patches. It is essential that your hosts are completely up to date with the provided hypervisor patches. The hypervisor vendor is likely to refuse to support any system that is not up to date with patches.

Apply All Necessary Hotfixes

The lack of up-do-date hotfixes can lead to data corruption and lost VMs.

10.1.2. Hardware requirements

•The host must be certified as compatible with the vSphere version you are using. See the VMware Hardware Compatibility Guide at http://www.vmware.com/resources/compatibility/search.php.

•All hosts must be 64-bit and must support HVM (Intel-VT or AMD-V enabled).

•All hosts within a cluster must be homogenous. That means the CPUs must be of the same type, count, and feature flags.

•64-bit x86 CPU (more cores results in better performance)

•Hardware virtualization support required

•4 GB of memory

•36 GB of local disk

•At least 1 NIC

•Statically allocated IP Address

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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.

Citrix Systems 4.2 Installing VMware for CloudPlatform, System Requirements for vSphere Hosts

Models: 4.2

Chapter 10.