2.3 The benefits of system partitioning
System partitioning is virtualization of system resources, including processor, memory, I/O, and storage so that all concurrent users appear to have access to the system, although each user is actually segmented and protected from the actions of other users. If one virtual partition freezes up, it would not affect the others.
System partitioning offers the ability to divide a system so that it can simultaneously support multiple operating system images. Among the benefits of system partitioning are:
Server hardware consolidation
High availability
Software migration and coexistence
Version control
Development
Testing and maintenance
Better protection from viruses and software crashes
Workload isolation
Independent backup and recovery on a partition basis
System resources, including processor, memory, I/O and storage are virtualized so that all concurrent programs appear to have complete access to the system. If one virtual partition were to lock up, it would not affect the others.
Here are just a few of the ways that system partitioning can help you to improve IT efficiency:
Server hardware consolidation — Consolidate many underused, underpowered, and unnecessary servers into a few productive ones. Reduce the number of current servers and buy fewer servers in the future.
Increased server utilization — Divide a processor into multiple partitions rather than wasting an entire processor on one
Simplified server management — Manage fewer servers centrally versus many of them individually in multiple locations. Have fewer servers, cables, operating systems, and applications to deal with.
Simplified application deployment — Once you have tested and qualified a specific hardware platform for use with a particular operating system and application combination, you can deploy software images on multiple partitions, rather than having to requalify the software on another hardware platform.
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