Operation of bwCloud-OS 

The bwCloud-OS service is operated from four locations - Freiburg, Karlsruhe, Mannheim, and Ulm - which are networked via BelWü.

Our infrastructure

Each of the our bwCloud-OS operating locations runs its own infrastructure, but is accessible via a common user interface  (Dashboard). The basis for this is OpenStack technology, which enables the creation of a flexible, secure and scalable cloud.

The distributed structure and modern hardware provide a powerful and highly available infrastructure that is continuously expanded and optimized. The new hardware generation not only offers more computing power, but also significantly lower energy consumption – an important step towards a more sustainable and “greener” cloud operation.

Networking and collaboration

The bwCloud-OS thrives on close cooperation between the higher education institutions, their data centers, and the project teams involved. This network ensures that expertise and resources are shared, and services are provided efficiently. 

Regular exchanges between the locations allow experiences, best practices, and new technical developments to be quickly integrated. This keeps bwCloud-OS future-proof and close to the needs of its users.

Operation, documentation and support 

The reliable operation of bwCloud-OS is ensured by the interaction of various teams at the locations. These include:

• Regular maintenance and updates of the platform to ensure stability and security.
• Extensive documentation and wiki to facilitate getting started and answer frequently asked questions.
• Support via a central ticket system, where requests are processed in a structured manner and forwarded to the responsible teams
• On-site operating personnel who work closely with the IT departments of the participating higher education institutions to support local operations.

This not only ensures technical operability, but also offers sustainable and personal support for all user groups.

Significance for research, teaching, and study

Whether for courses with practical IT exercises, research projects with flexible computing requirements, or student work, bwCloud-OS creates a digital space where ideas can be implemented quickly, securely and in a resource-efficient manner. With its networked infrastructure, bwCloud-OS supports not only individual projects but also cross-university collaborations.

It is cost-efficient, flexible, and, thanks to modern, energy-efficient hardware, also more sustainable in operation. In this way, it contributes significantly to the digital transformation of higher education institutions in Baden-Württemberg.