Licensing problems when virtualizing servers?
I've talked to several people who've run into licensing restrictions when virtualizing their environments, and was wondering if this is a common headache? I know Cisco's changed some recent policies which have affected testing platforms, but was wondering if anyone else has run into problems, either with keys or just keeping in line with their EULA?
Software/Hardware used:
Any tips or warnings would be really appreciated.
Software/Hardware used:
ASKED:
May 13, 2010 4:18 PM
UPDATED:
May 19, 2010 8:32 PM
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Answer Wiki:
I work with smaller systems so haven't run into it yet (limited virtualization). I know the OS and other software vendors are doing a lot of talking about it, though. I was at two presentations recently that focused on blade servers and there was significant discussion on licensing implications and the changes coming forward.
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I haven’t run into any issues, but it would depend what software you were talking about.
With Window for example, it’s easy. You buy a Windows license for each VM as if it were a physical server.
Each software vendor has a different, and sometimes very complex pricing model. IBM, for example has a Tivoli license model that more resembles tax law, and is dependent upon CPU type, number of cores, etc. So, when comparing software solutions, it’s best to include their price model into your matrix.
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One could also stay away from proprietary Software – VMWare and Microsoft for starters and take a hearty look at FOSS. ALL of the LInux platforms offer virtualization – KVM is built into the Linux kernel, Xen is free as well – Unless you actually HAVE to use a MS operating system – it’s likely you’ll be running on some flavor of linux for the guest VM’s anyway/. Take a look at Xen, Red Hat’s RHEV, Ubuntu LTS or even Carbon Mountain’s KaOS Hv.