Implementing a VM-Aware Network Using VMready

Virtualization allows administrators to create virtual versions of resources such as a hardware platform, operating system, storage device, or network resource. This process allows the creation of multiple versions of a resource on a single physical machine. This configuration allows the advantages of multiple resources while simplifying management tasks and improving use of physical resources. In this way, virtualization can be used to enhance IT service performance, scalability, efficiency, availability, and security. Configuring these virtual machines requires the use of hypervisor software.

However, network switches are not aware of virtual machines. If you run each virtual machine on a dedicated set of servers, performance and security needs can be met by configuring the network settings for each servers. However, this nullifies the main benefits of virtualization. You can get better IT service performance, scalability, efficiency, and availability by creating multiple virtual resources on the same server. For this configuration, you need a way to apply unique network settings for each virtual resource.

IBM® VMready® is a software solution that supports open standards virtualization based on IEEE 802.1Qbg Edge Virtual Bridging. It allows administrators to create groups of virtual machines, administer them from a central location, and migrate them. VMready works with all major hypervisor software, including VMware, Microsoft Hyper-V, Linux Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM), Citrix XenServer, or IBM PowerVM®. It requires no proprietary tagging or changes to the hypervisor software. This IBM Redbooks® publication helps IT systems and networking professionals to understand IBM VMready technology options. It includes instructions on how to install, tailor, and configure VMready networking solutions.

Part 1. Virtualization and VM-aware networking overview
Chapter 1. What you need to know about system virtualization
Chapter 2. Introducing VMready
Chapter 3. Management for VMready
Part 2. Implementing a VM-aware network
Chapter 4. Implementing VMready to support VMware
Chapter 5. Implementing VMready to support PowerVM
Chapter 6. Implementing VMready to support KVM
Chapter 7. Implementing VMready to support Hyper-V and other virtualization environments

Related product families

Product families related to this document are the following:

• 10 Gb Ethernet Connectivity
• Network Management
• VMware vSphere