Implementation of VMWare images for student computers

1
Implementation of VMWare images for student
computers

• Mahon Macnamara
• Dublin City University

2
Scenario

• Increasing numbers of student laptops being used
  on campus (2,000)
• Only internet connectivity, security provided
• No file print, no access to campus licensed
  software
• Unharnessed computing resource
• How could we address these problems?

3
Possible Solutions

• Software installation
• Resource intensive
• Compromises student ownership
• Laptop Purchase scheme
• Allows delivery of pre-configured laptops
• What about laptops already purchased?
• Cuts down on choice
• Virtual Machine

4
What is a Virtual Machine (VM)?

• A virtual machine is software that creates a
  virtualized environment between the computer
  platform and its operating system, so that the
  end user can operate software on an abstract
  machine.

5
Why use a VM?

• Machine independent
• OS Independent
• Single install reduce support overhead
• No radical change to look and feel of laptop

6
Which Virtualisation Product?

• VMWare Workstation
• Industry leaders
• Feature rich
• Virtualisation vs emulation
• Microsoft Virtual PC
• Performance
• Discontinuation of OSX support
• Lack of USB support

7
Usage Scenario

• Extension of lab PCs
• Similar desktop configuration login screen,
  background etc.
• Similar network configuration proxy information
• Office Suite
• SPSS v14

8
Technical Setup

• OS Windows 2000
• Smaller installation footprint
• Less resource intensive
• 6gb virtual disk (maximum)
• 256mb ram (adjustable)
• Novell Client 4.91
• Pre-installed printers
• Drag and Drop to share files between host and
  guest OS
• Cut Paste text between host and guest OS
• Fits on to a DVD

9
Legalities

• Campus connected device only accessible when
  connected to network
• Full OS Installation allowed under MSDNAA
  agreement
• In discussions with Microsoft
• Redevelop using Linux and Open Office

10
Future Planning

• OSX, Vista Support
• Built-in VPN access
• VMs tailored for individual courses
• Management through VMWare ACE
• Advances in CPU design (Intel VT and AMD Pacifica)