A virtual future

Xchange newsletter – February 2009

Over the years, the software used in laboratories has become increasingly complex. Now, for those looking to redesign their laboratory service, the functionality of software applications is absolutely pivotal to delivering the desired solution.

With such reliance on software, we must in turn pay significant attention to the underlying hardware infrastructure – and in particular, the availability and fault tolerance of each system. To achieve this, Abbott is adopting hardware virtualisation.

Virtualisation is an important and growing trend, and many NHS Trusts are now incorporating virtual solutions within their IT infrastructures. So what exactly is virtualisation and what can it offer you?

What is virtualisation?

Traditionally, software packages run on an independent physical server. In contrast, virtualisation means running software within a virtual environment. In this way, you can run several applications and operating systems on a single physical server. Computers within a computer as it were.

Why would I want to go down the virtualisation route?

Virtualisation can create a more agile infrastructure, reduce the total cost of IT ownership and minimise downtime.

Specific benefits of virtualisation:

• Better business continuity: the flexibility of a virtual set-up helps reduce scheduled and unscheduled downtime
• Easier software back-up and disaster recovery
• Reducing the number of physical servers saves precious machine room space
• Greener: fewer physical servers means a smaller carbon footprint
• You get the most from your hardware, plus improved life cycle management and test environment coverage
• Saves time: time required to create and deploy a new virtual machine (VM) can be reduced to a few minutes