So, in this video, you'll learn about storage area network and how it can be implemented to create a more redundant, virtualized environment.
So, in this video, you'll learn about storage area network and how it can be implemented to create a more redundant, virtualized environment.
We Serve to Support, Educate and Blog
Support - Done WellThe word 'support' has become cringe-worthy, much like 'Vista' or 'Millennium Edition.' Opinions seem to fall on one side or the other of a distinct dividing line - no vendor's 'support' is merely adequate these days. It's either phenomenal or terrible.
It's crazy to think that vendors strive for an utter lack of excellence. Still, many end users report just such an attitude in their communications with support personnel. Too often, customer support calls are considered unavoidable nuisances in an otherwise productive day. Of course, no one would ever admit they feel that way. But the attitude is pervasive, and it is all too easy for customers to detect, whether in voice inflection during phone calls or while reading hastily prepared e-mail responses. Worse still is getting no response at all.
BlueLock works very diligently to avoid falling into that trap. Working the front lines for a VMware hosting provider is a unique opportunity. Customers can contact us via e-mail or by telephone and all sorts of queries come in which keeps things interesting. Much of our work is generated automatically by our monitoring system. It's important for BlueLock Support personnel to be able to juggle several roles each day and we employ several tools that make it easier to provide top-level service.
Don't Hesitate, Educate!
We understand that Cloud Computing is a fairly new concept, so one of the primary roles that we perform on the support desk is education. It takes time to become familiar with virtual servers, online disk expansions, and balloon drivers. At BlueLock, we can help make such concepts more clear - and it's as easy as calling the Support Desk.
The most popular topic for education at the BlueLock Support Desk is snapshots. Proper use of snapshots can make an administrator's job much easier. In a nutshell, each virtual machine on our environment is comprised of a file - that's right, the entire server is essentially a file running on a host system. Snapshots serve basically as restore points for those files. This is useful mainly when making major configuration changes or installing new software. When a snapshot is created, what really happens is that a 'change file' is generated. All subsequents changes to the virtual server are written to the change file. When testing is complete, the snapshot must be either committed or reverted. Committing the snapshot merges it with the original server file. This happens on the fly with no interruptions to service. Reverting essentially destroys the change file and returns the server to its state before the snapshot was taken.
The primary drawback of snapshots is that they tend to grow very quickly. Thus, BlueLock has a retention policy of 24-48 hours during which the snapshot must be committed or reverted.
VMware virtual servers are unique entities, especially when backing them up. Backups at BlueLock work much differently than with standard, physical hardware. We perform a combination of snapshots, disk-to-disk and tape backups to protect customer data. The current system is complex enough for its own blog posting, so I'll cover that in more detail at a later date.
Enterprise Computing in the Cloud
So what is enterprise cloud computing? How is it so different from (regular) cloud computing?Jill Tummler Singer explains that enterprise cloud computing is "a behind-the-firewalls use of commercial, Internet-based cloud technologies specifically focused on one company’s or one business environment’s computing needs."
It's a "a controlled, internal place that offers the rapid and flexible provisioning of compute power, storage, software, and security services to meet your mission’s demands. It combines the processes of a best in class ITIL organization with the agility of managed, global infrastructure to make your IT faster, better, cheaper, and safer. Enterprise cloud computing gives your business agility, survivability, sustainability, and security."
Many enterprises with highly secure data and strict up-time and performance needs feel that cloud computing is out of the question. Most of these companies questioning the abilities of cloud computing services are companies in the government, life sciences and financial services industries. Enterprise cloud computing is the answer for them. They need tailored, dedicated high performance environments to provide the benefits of cloud computing with the security and assurance of enterprise-class platforms.
BlueLock is a top VMware hosting provider - we use proven enterprise-class VMware virtualization technology to serve our clients no matter what industry or need level, but we are able to tailor and architect high performance, secure and compliant cloud computing environments specifically for our enterprise-level clients. BlueLock has been extremely successful serving clients in the government, life sciences and financial services, helping them to realize the advantages of cloud computing.
To learn more about BlueLock's enterprise cloud computing services contact us here.
Top 5 Cloud Computing Predictions 2010
Because we needed another "top" list, I'd love to go through David Linthicum's latest list, "Top 5 Cloud Computing Predictions for 2010."Prediction #1: The rise of cloud computing standards
The whole theme of standards and interoperability was a big topic in 2009, but those discussions were very conceptual, and not really actionable. Some organizations waited on the wayside before adopting a cloud computing solution because standards and interoperability would prevent them from experiencing vendor lock-in. On that note, some have said that BlueLock was a bad name choice because it has a connotation that we would "lock" our clients in. I like to think that BlueLock would make someone think of security, but I guess not. However, our cloud uses VMware virtualization technology, so you can take your VMware stuff and take it wherever you like (as long as it stays VMware) if you decide you aren't a big fan of us. No vendor-lockin here. Back to topic - I can already tell from listening in on some strategic meetings here that interoperability will take on a large role this year for us. I can only guess that we aren't the only cloud computing provider with that on our mind.
Prediction #2: First Major Cloud Computing Outages
This one is only a matter of time. Stuff happens in the cloud. The cloud still involves real people and of course, real technology. Although outages will happen, your provider should make sure that there is a sufficient backup plan in order that will help alleviate those pains. And of course, the second a "big" provider has a "big" mishap, all aim will go to the cloud. However, Linthicum reminds us, "Despite the outages, cloud computing providers will maintain an uptime record that far exceeds that of most on-premise systems, but you won't hear about that in the technology press."
Prediction #3: Microsoft will be relevant in the cloud
Most businesses run Microsoft, so to say that Microsoft will not become a larger cloud player would be silly. Now that they've finally got going on the cloud front, we'll see just how much of an impact they'll make, but we're sure to see them make some sort of splash. However, "Google will continue to dominate small to medium-sized businesses, using its free ad-driven model for delivery of Google Docs and Gmail, with a few larger enterprise deals thrown in."
Prediction #4: Rapid Consolidation of Existing Providers
As cloud computing continues to grow, many of the successful providers will want to expand even more, which will involve buying up the smaller guys. Hence, there will be less small providers and more big - consolidation.
Prediction #5: Rise of Cloud Computing Startups
As if 2009 didn't see enough, there will be more in 2010 as the technology leaves the stage of early adoption and reaches the masses. As consolidation occurs (see prediction #4), market value will increase and more VC-backed startups will sprout up. Think you've seen a lot of "as a services" this year? It won't be the end of it.
Read David's original post here.
Do you have a prediction for the cloud in 2010?
Advantages of Cloud Computing Meetups
Assimilation of knowledge through osmosis is simple.
There are usually tons of super-smart people at events like those listed above. Whether these people are cloud computing providers, vmware virtual server specialists, or others utilizing a cloud computing platform; just standing b and listening in on conversations can be a learning experience. Be curious, pay attention, and ask questions.
Networking -- the interpersonal relationships kind -- reaps rewards.
Meet some new people, nd expand your network. How can you help event attendees? I always make it a goal to make at least three connections that don't immediately benefit me in any way. While you should never help someone with the intent to gain something in return, the law of reciprocity always pays dividends.
Fluency increases competency.
The simple repetition of explaining the advantages of cloud computing has helped me build a certain level of confidence and competence around the benefits of virtualization, vmware hoted environments, and SaaS irtualization. Join in the conversation and learn to talk the talk. The act of speaking about cloud computing platforms, helps to organize thoughts, enhance comprehension, and vet new ideas.
Bottom line: get out of the office and learn somthing from somebody -- including yourself. Find the next cloud computing meetup in your area. Hope to see you there.
BlueLock Launches BlueLock vCloud Express Beta II Program

truly scalable storage solution in the Cloud
(Indianapolis, IN – December 1, 2009) - Indianapolis-based BlueLock, provider of cloud computing and managed IT services, announces its second round of Beta testing with BlueLock vCloud Express Beta II. BlueLock was one of only five cloud computing hosting providers chosen by VMware to provide VMware vCloud Express services since its launch in September 2009.
BlueLock vCloud Express Beta II is a Compute-as-a-Service solution designed to support transient workloads by providing a high level of elasticity for faster turnaround time and future workload federation. BlueLock vCloud Express will compete with services such as Amazon EC2 and Windows Azure.
“BlueLock vCloud Express Beta I was an instant success,” said Pat O’Day, CTO, BlueLock. “We filled up our Beta I slots in less than two months. With the feedback we garnered from those early users we’ve been able to make some major changes and the offering will continue to get better as we prepare to launch the public offering early in 2010.”
BlueLock vCloud Express Beta II is a reliable, on-demand infrastructure solution that ensures compatibility with internal VMware environments and with VMware Virtualized™ services worldwide. The technology allows users to create virtual machines as needed and add compute capacity via an online interface. The beta services are currently free, but the public offering in the future will include a pay-as-you-go payment structure where users pay only for the compute and storage space they use.
BlueLock vCloud Express Beta II is available immediately. For additional information, visit http://vcloudexpress.bluelock.com.
BlueLock vCloud Express BETA is FULL
Thanks again to our participating launch partners:
- Scale Computing
- Intel
- HP
- Shavlik
- And of course, VMware
More information on BlueLock vCloud Express:
BlueLock’s vCloud Express (Beta) is an on-demand, pay-as-you-go virtual machine hosting service. Running on VMware, it ensures compatibility with internal VMware environments and with VMware Virtualized™ services worldwide.
BlueLock vCloud Express is specifically designed as an easy and affordable way to try a virtual cloud or host application. This solution is perfectly suited for test and development or a startup environment. Developers are able to use the BlueLock vCloud Express service to rapidly deploy application environments and get started quickly. The solution retains the robustness, interoperability and reliability that BlueLock and VMware virtualization technology is known for while delivering the easy access and cost effectiveness of the pay as you go model.
To stay up to date on BlueLock vCloud Express and our other offerings, join our newsletter.
BlueLock Partners: Our Friends at VMworld
Key differences between Amazon EC2 and VMware vCloud Express
Amazon EC2 is based on Citrix XenServer technology and VMware’s cloud offering is targeted directly at Amazon. vCloud Express is obviously based on VMware virtualization technology as well as their vCloud API.
Snapshot of the differences between pricing and offerings:
o vCloud Express charges $.01 per hour for public IP addresses and $.01 per hour for external internet access for the workload including load balancing (which isn’t available on EC2)
- Operating Systems
o AWS has a comparatively limited OS
To learn more about vCloud Express, click here.
To read Vanover’s full post, click here.
Why Virtualization is Green
Server virtualization not only makes sense economically, but also environmentally. Is your organization dedicated to a green initiative? Recycling, biking and other green trends will definitely make an impact, but not quite as much as an impact if your IT virtualizes its infrastructure. Green IT is growing in importance and virtualization is easiest way to get your company on board with the movement.Gartner estimates that over the next 5 years, most enterprise data centers will spend as much on energy as they do on hardware infrastructure. With that ratio, every dollar you spend on the infrastructure means another dollar spent on power and cooling. That’s a tough ratio to work with.
Analyst firm IDC3 states that the unutilized server capacity equates to approximately $150 billion and over 20 million servers (traditional servers use only 5-15% capacity). The unutilized servers produce a total of more than 80 million tons of CO2 per year.
Why is virtualization green? Servers get consolidated, drastically saving space and power and cooling costs (read: saving energy). Also, virtual servers consume 60-90% of the normal workload even when idle. Your organization is able to increase its IT capacity and save money while going Kermit-the-Frog green at the same time! (Companies can save up to 80% on infrastructure costs using virtualization.)
BlueLock uses VMware virtualization technology to reduce our carbon footprint, simultaneously reducing yours as a client. We’ve got your financial and environmental needs in mind.
For more information on Green IT, visit this site.
BlueLock vCloud Express has Officially Launched!
BlueLock’s vCloud Express (Beta) is an on-demand, pay-as-you-go virtual machine hosting service. Running on VMware, it ensures compatibility with internal VMware environments and with VMware Virtualized™ services worldwide.
VMware announced the new product offering at VMworld during the keynote speech yesterday as one of their key initiatives. VMware chose 5 hosting providers internationally to provide vCloud Express services, and BlueLock is one of them.
For more information on the service or to sign up, click here.
To read about the launch on CNN Money, click here.
Why VMware Virtualization is so cool
Here at BlueLock, we get it. We know that VMware is the new, cool and hip product to be using - but its also got the technological now-how behind it to stick through just being "trendy." VMware virtualization technology has been a key agent in the overall movement towards virtual cloud computing and BlueLock is proud to run a VMware cloud in our facility.
Verizon to offer Cloud Computing
Verizon is yet another telecom to jump on the cloud bandwagon - AT&T recently joined (last month) as well.
Verizon partnered with VMware for its data center virtualization services. VMware is a BlueLock partner as well, and is a very reputable virtualization provider in the cloud space.
Take Cautious Approach to Cloud Computing? Just Lay Out Your Needs.
Forrester advises that companies who are considering cloud-based services gain a clear understanding of security, privacy and legal consequences of contracting with a service provider. At BlueLock, we like to make it as easy for you as possible to learn about our practices and procedures and match those up against other cloud computing providers. In our opinion, the last thing we want is to have clients come in and sign on unaware of how their security, privacy and data will be handled.
In regards to security, Forrester recommends that organizations create a checklist of data security and compliance priorities. This is great advice. The more you can elaborate on your needs, the better able BlueLock is to provide you exactly what you need.
We’ve had lots of requests for highly compliant IT environments. The beauty of cloud computing is that BlueLock is able to build your company a compliant environment at a fraction of the cost of building an entire IT system and infrastructure on your own. Right On Interactive chose BlueLock as their SaaS hosting provider for that precise reason. Their 5Buckets solution (integrated marketing automation software) needed to be highly compliant in order to be able to integrate with companies such as ExactTarget (email marketing) and SalesForce.com.
They turned to BlueLock, laid out their needs and wants in regards to security and compliance, decided where they wanted their data stored (Indianapolis facility) and off BlueLock went designing a VMware virtualized IT environment. They now pay for IT infrastructure as a monthly operational expense; their compliant and secure environment can scale on demand and its environment if fully managed by virtualization experts 24/7/365. What more could a growing software company ask for?
Cloud Computing – The Online Equivalent of a “U-Store It”
He is going to rent a physical storage large enough to contain all the items he thinks his kids might want. His rent will be determined by how much storage he needs. He expects it to be secure from theft, protected from destruction and accessible so he can reclaim his belongings whenever he wants. As he gives away items or accumulates he can move to a smaller or larger storage unit.
In a nutshell, customers coming to BlueLock are looking many of the same items. Our VMware virtual storage allows our customers to scale on demand; increasing or decreasing the size of the cloud to match their needs.
My friend expects a secure environment and so do our clients. This need for high levels of security is why we include the Shavlik Security Suite as part of our comprehensive cloud computing solution.
Partnering with Shavlik a recognized leader in the security software market allows us to deliver a proven solution for our customers which address the patch management and compliance challenges inherent in highly distributed physical and virtual environments.
For more on BlueLock’s cloud computing security, check out these posts:
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Green IT: Cloud Computing
So how do we make our data center green? Two major things: VMware virtual servers and HP LeftHand SAN. BlueLock has realized a strong "green technology" benefit in terms of reduced power and cooling consumption and space requirements.
BlueLock CTO Pat O'Day explains:
BlueLock has created a green, scalable, cost-efficient and 100% virtual platform by utiilizing the VMware vCloud and HP LeftHand P4000 SAN solution.
Managed Cloud Hosting and Tax Advisors
While the buzz word is new, the actual technology and idea is not. It just wasn’t named right before. Cloud-based services had names like ASP – “Application Service Provision,” or “network-distributed parallel processing.” The word cloud symbolizes the idea much more eloquently. It’s much easier for someone to understand the analogy of putting something in a “cloud” than trying to get what those other techie and uncanny terms were referring to before, especially for business leaders who aren’t all that techie themselves.
At BlueLock we had some similar “naming” problems at the get go. What were we to call this service that it seemed no one else was providing? We knew one thing: we provide IT infrastructure. And another: what we do is very service oriented. And so, Pat O’Day, our CTO who I like to think as basically an IT genius, coined the phrase “Infrastructure-as-a-Service” (IaaS) back in 2006. He actually authored the very first entry in Wikipedia for that term which has since received more than 500 additions and updates as the technology has evolved.
And with all the virtualization that made up our offerings we realized shortly thereafter what we provided was cloud computing (our cloud is a total VMware virtualized cloud), with an IaaS business model. We called it "distributed computing," "managed dedicated hosting," and other terms that were correct, just not very catchy... but at the end of the day it was cloud computing.
But what we didn’t provide was an Amazon or Rackspace or Google cloud, it was something much different. It was something that included more of a relationship, not just a click of a button that allowed you to access the “cloud.” We manage IT services.
The thing that makes us different is the fact that we listen to your needs, walk you through the development of your IT environment, consult you on your different choices and what makes the most sense for you. If we listen and hear that you need an Amazon or Rackspace cloud, we’ll tell you.
Managed cloud hosting isn’t for everyone, just like tax advisors aren’t for everyone. Some people like to do it themselves and others like to make sure they’re getting every ounce of benefit they can from their efforts and have someone to go to when they have questions, tricky situations, or they just want someone else to be held responsible.
Thankfully at BlueLock we’ve got responsible people. Now it’s just a question of “your people or mine?”
Focus your great people on the IT infrastructure or your great people on the core goals of your business? For some it’s an easy question to answer … and they will be the ones whose businesses develop stronger and faster than yours.
Cloud Vendors: Helping Data Centers Prep for Cloud Service Offerings
Some of the key points:
• Lower costs – Users are turning to the cloud to manage shrinking resources
• End users turn to the cloud to compensate for skill and resource gaps particularly in new start ups
• The cloud can address inefficiency in existing systems
• Combine resources from different providers
• And in many cases creating a cloud environment such as a VMware virtual hosted environment does not require going outside .
Cloud Computing Webinar: Hybrid Environments & Avoiding Vendor Lock-in
As part of our partnership with rPath we will be participating in their webinar and live demonstration entitled “Blending Clouds: Avoiding Lock-In and Realizing the Promise of Hybrid Compute Environments — Today”.
Our CTO Pat O’Day, along with experts from rPath and VMware, will discuss the key use cases for hybrid compute environments and how companies can take advantage of cloud computing without sacrificing control to vendor lock-in. During the webinar the presenters will demonstration of a real application moving seamlessly between BlueLock, Amazon EC2 and a VMware ESX server.
Attendance for this event is free but registration is required. For more information or to register please visit http://tinyurl.com/rpathwebinar.
I was on WISH-TV: A Look at Cloud Computing
Local Indianapolis CBS affiliate WISH TV interviewed me to provide their viewers with an introduction to Cloud Computing. I tried to clearly outline the advantages for businesses to consider a virtualization strategy.
If you're seeking enterprise colocation, disaster recovery, managed hosting or a vmware/virtualization strategy, we would love the opportunity to take you on a tour of our facility! Read more about Bluelock's offerings at our corporate website.
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- We Serve to Support, Educate and Blog
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- Top 5 Cloud Computing Predictions 2010
- Advantages of Cloud Computing Meetups
- BlueLock Launches BlueLock vCloud Express Beta II Program
- BlueLock vCloud Express BETA is FULL
- BlueLock Partners: Our Friends at VMworld
- Key differences between Amazon EC2 and VMware vCloud Express
- Why Virtualization is Green
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