Servers in a traditional computing environment typically run an individual application within a single operating system. Virtualization allows multiple applications with independent operating systems to run on a single physical computer, increasing machine usage and efficiency. These "virtual" servers exist on the host computer separately from one another as if they were on a dedicated machine.

Private Cloud provides infrastructure to host servers and services in a virtual server environment. This service is based on the VMware suite of virtualization products and is available to Texas A&M University colleges, departments and approved affiliates.

Private Cloud from the Texas A&M Technology Services is not a cookie-cutter experience. We offer custom solutions in addition to standardized templates. We will work with you to design a solution that meets your needs and integrates well into a shared environment. We are here to help you before, during and after deployment.

Getting Started

To request this service, email vm-request@tamu.edu.

Help and Support

For help regarding this service, email vm-request@tamu.edu.

Texas A&M University (Part 02) rates are displayed below. See General Computing Rates for TAMUS, Non-TAMUS, and Auxiliary Rates.

*This service is nonrefundable once purchased in a given fiscal year.

**See Server Administration for more about this service.

Private Cloud from the Texas A&M Technology Services provides infrastructure to host servers and services in a virtual server environment. This service is based on the VMware suite of virtualization products, and is available to any Texas A&M University college or department, or approved affiliate.

Services

The following provides a summary of base services provided as part of the Texas A&M Technology Services server virtualization services:

Virtual machine creation – create a virtual machine to customer's specifications for memory, CPU reservation, disk space and supported OS.

Backups – perform weekly snapshots of only the first disk attached to each virtual machine (usually the Operating System disk) for disaster recovery purposes.

Infrastructure monitoring – 24/7/365 monitoring of virtualization infrastructure, including on-call service and response to events.

Service Availability

Normal Service Availability
The Texas A&M Technology Services Private Cloud is available for customer use 24 hours per day, seven days per week, all days per year, excluding scheduled maintenance periods.

Problem Reporting and Change Notification
Texas A&M Technology Services will notify customers of general and widespread events using the IT Alerts website. A mailing list will be maintained by Texas A&M Technology Services to include contact information provided by customers.
Subscribers may report questions or concerns through Help Desk Central at helpdesk@tamu.edu or 979.845.8300.

• vRealize Automation allows self-service provisioning.
• NSX, VMWare’s software-defined networking, includes integration with Infoblox.
• Load balancing and firewalls at the virtual layer.
• Workflow automation, with approvals if needed.
• Auto-provisioning of virtual servers based on templates.
• Ability to provide short-term virtual servers, with daily billing increments.