Virtualized Desktop Server

[Alan]

I a want to start playing with virtualised desktops.

The minimum server spec is

• 8 gigabytes (GB) of random-access memory (RAM)
  
  8 GB is sufficient to run approximately six virtual desktops.
  
  
• Quad core x86-64 (64-bit) central processing unit (CPU), with virtualization support (Intel VT-x or AMD-V)
  
  
• 100 gigabytes (GB) of free disk space
  
  In this guide, a local disk is used to store the virtual desktops. It is best to use a host with at least two disks, so that the storage can be separated from the operating system. Make sure the storage disk has enough capacity to store your virtual desktops.
  
  
• 1 gigabit (Gbit) network interface card (NIC)
  

What are your thoughts.

If I were to buy a server of this minimum spec, what make / model would you recommend?

If I were to rent a dedicated server of this spec, what & where woudl you recommend?

(please note, this isn't a tender so not an invite for PMs from server / hosting companies )

 

[vmhosts]

What is the specification you plan to give to each Virtual Desktop instance? RAM is relatively cheap I would recommend leaving at least 2GB assigned to the Hypervisor and avoid over committing what is assigned to the Guest OS's.

Are you running this server on premise or planning on collocating it? If on premise, are you looking for a tower or rack mount server?

 

[Alan]

My objectives are to start playing with the technologies rather than implement a full working model. Basically I want to learn some of the things you may already know

The spec for that box is for Oracle VDI. I also want to have a play with Citrix DaaS.

Maybe there are better ways to learn the ins & outs / pros & cons than playing with the technology?

 

[vmhosts]

You looking to run on premise or colo? if on premise would it be a tower or rack mount server?

 

[Alan]

Just a random thought. Whilst Oracle installation of VDI specifies a dedicated server - it it technically possible to run it up on Amazon Web Services?

 

[columbo]

Some options here for you:

https://www.ovh.co.uk/dedicated_servers/range-2013/

 

[LowPrices.uk]

Re hardware, HP are quite well regarded, Dell are good value.

For hosting, I'd take a look at Clook, as they are quite good for support. If you want great support, then look at Rackspace.

 

[DesignerNick]

If it is just for testing you could get something for less then 50 a month for this spec easily.

Which os were you looking to try?

If it is just for fiddling about I'd rent a server for a month and cancel if it doesn't go as planned!

 

[Maximilian87]

You may want to look at NVidias' grid computing servers for VDI instances.

 

[Davek0974]

We've always used Dell servers - not let us down yet over 25 years now.

We run ESXi virtualisation and Wyse T50 terminals.