The cloud has made it possible to create a virtual version of almost anything, and data centers are no exception. One of the pioneers in this field is VMware, a leading company that specializes in data center virtualization. In simple terms, VMware allows businesses to run multiple virtual computers, or “virtual machines,” on a single physical server, effectively maximizing resources and optimizing operations.
Now, imagine taking this virtual world to the cloud. VMware cloud migration is the process of moving your existing virtualized data center to the cloud. It involves carefully planning and executing the transition, ensuring a seamless move of your applications, data, and systems from your on-premises infrastructure to a cloud-based environment, like Google Cloud VMware Engine (GCVE).
We’ve assembled a list of 10 hot topics related to VMware cloud migration below. It’s a lot to process, we know. Luckily, SADA’s VMware migration experts stand ready to assist you on every aspect of your migration journey.
For an example of how SADA helps organizations rapidly scale using VMware, check out our Loadspring customer story. And don’t hesitate to contact us to get started on a custom strategy tailored to your organization’s needs.
VMware migration–10 hot topics
1. Architectural approaches
When it comes to VMware cloud migration, it’s crucial to adopt a well-thought-out architectural approach. This means designing a plan that considers the unique requirements of your business, the compatibility of your applications with the cloud environment, and the necessary adjustments needed to make the migration successful. SADA experts can help you chart a path to an efficient, successful migration that minimizes disruption to your business.
2. Program management
Migrating to the cloud is a complex process that requires efficient program management. This involves coordinating various tasks, setting timelines, and identifying potential challenges to overcome during the migration journey. Proper program management ensures that the process runs smoothly, minimizing disruptions to your operations.
3. Migration execution
Executing the migration is where the rubber meets the road. Following the carefully devised plan, your migration team along with oversight from our project management team will transfer your virtual machines, applications, and data from your existing data center to the cloud. This step requires precision, as even a small error can lead to downtime or data loss.
4. Data center consolidation and exit
Data center consolidation is the process of streamlining and optimizing your IT infrastructure, which often occurs during migration. It allows you to get rid of unnecessary hardware and improve resource utilization. Datacenter exit, on the other hand, involves decommissioning your on-premises data center once the migration is successfully completed.
5. Hybrid cloud deployment
For many businesses, a hybrid cloud approach is the way to go. This means integrating both on-premises infrastructure and cloud-based resources. VMware cloud migration can facilitate a seamless hybrid cloud deployment, enabling you to enjoy the benefits of both worlds–the flexibility of the cloud and the control of on-premises systems.
6. Desktop Virtualization with VMware Horizon
VMware Horizon is a technology that enables desktop virtualization. It allows users to access their desktops, applications, and data from anywhere and on any device. Migrating a Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) environment to Google Cloud on GVCE ensures that your teams can work remotely with the same level of efficiency and security as they do from the office.
7. Oracle on GVCE
For organizations running critical Oracle databases, moving them to Google Cloud on GVCE can be advantageous. This provides a scalable and reliable infrastructure to support your Oracle workloads while benefiting from the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of the cloud.
8. Hybrid multi-cloud networking with NSX-T
Networking is a critical aspect of any data center, and it becomes even more important when you extend your infrastructure to the cloud. NSX-T is a VMware technology that enables software-defined networking (SDN) in a multi-cloud environment. This allows you to configure and manage your data center networking to extend to Google Cloud Platform (GCP) with ease.
9. Business continuity and disaster recovery
When you’re dealing with data and critical applications, ensuring business continuity and disaster recovery is paramount and VMware can help with secondary site consolidation as well. SADA’s architectural review will assess your current setup’s strengths and weaknesses, and vendor solutions like Actifio or HYCU can be implemented to enhance data protection and disaster recovery capabilities.
10. Modernization beyond Microsoft
If your on-premises infrastructure still runs on legacy operating systems, VMware cloud migration can offer a path to modernization. By moving from legacy-based on-premises platforms to Google Cloud, you can improve scalability, performance, and cost efficiency for your workloads.
VMware migration to the cloud is an exciting and transformative journey that can significantly enhance your business operations. Whether you’re virtualizing your data center, optimizing your network, enabling remote work with VDI, or modernizing your IT infrastructure, VMware and cloud technologies offer a world of possibilities. Proper planning, execution, and support from experienced professionals will ensure a smooth and successful migration, empowering your organization to thrive in the digital era.
Contact us to schedule a discovery call and start planning your VMware migration today.
