Safely shutting down your virtual environment

Virtual servers allow multiple users to access and control a web-based node as if they each have complete control. Server virtualization makes it possible for IT infrastructure to scale up rapidly and efficiently while still maintaining administrative control over day-to-day processes. This virtual hardware provides a number of benefits to the IT infrastructure, including:

• Deployment speed: Virtual servers are easy to replicate, making them faster to deploy. 
• Efficiency: By reducing the number of physical servers being used, this also reduces the energy spent without sacrificing service. 
• Reduced downtime: As these servers can be easily replicated, they also provide shorter downtime in the event of a disruption.

According to Schneider Electric research, the average business has to deal with 214 minutes of unexpected power loss each year. Even though these servers are virtual, they still require power from physical IT systems. In the event of a power disruption, virtual servers still need to be safely shut down, otherwise critical data could be lost or corrupted. The Custom Networks team and APC products can help. 

In order to protect your virtual servers, you're going to need to control the following:

• UPS systems such as the SRT5KRMXLT
• Portable cooling units
• Rack roof ventilation trays

Shutdown software
Virtual servers need robust power protection just as much as physical ones. In the event of a power disruption like a lightning surge, it's crucial to properly power down equipment to protect your hardware and the data stored on it. This is where shutdown software comes in – the power conditioning software can safely power down virtual servers before shutting down hardware, ensuring your equipment and data are undamaged. 

PowerChute Network Shutdown is a powerful tool that allows you to safely shut down your virtual systems, maintaining your data and hardware in the process. To put this software to use for your virtual servers, purchase the PowerChute Business Edition from Custom Networks. 

Cooling when and where you need it
APC carries portable cooling units that can be placed wherever you need them. The ACPSC3500 is a self-contained cooling unit that provides 3.5kW of cooling capacity to keep your equipment from overheating. 

Rack roof ventilation
The ACF501 rack roof fan tray keeps air moving through the rack, eliminating hot spots and cooling your equipment. The fan trays, once installed at the top of the unit enclosure, keep air moving from bottom to top. 

If you're managing a group of virtual servers, you need to ensure the safety of your data and your equipment. Click here to access the Schneider Electric eBook on optimized management and safe shutdown for virtualized server rooms.