The increasing complexity and diversification of IT provision at universities necessitated a cross-location infrastructure. Individual data centers were often unable to provide the required resources in the desired quality on their own. Server virtualization had already become established, but challenges remained due to additional complexity in planning and operation. The goal was to build a scalable and flexible virtualization environment that could be used cooperatively by several universities to share resources efficiently and meet the needs of research, teaching, and administration.

The “bwCloud 1” project: cross-location server virtualization – pursued the development and testing of a robust concept for a cross-location virtualization platform, including prototype implementation. The central objectives were: development of a state-wide infrastructure for providing virtual machines, creation of a VM image repository, establishment of a self-service portal for users, development of operating and cost models, and investigation and implementation of high-availability solutions. The platform was aimed at universities, research institutions, and students and was designed to simplify and automate access to computing capacities.

The project was divided into several work packages, ranging from management and communication to requirements analysis and evaluation of cloud solutions to setting up the test environment. Particularly important aspects included the technical evaluation of virtualization and storage systems, the development of support structures, and the creation of concepts for migration and interoperability of different virtualization environments. A particular focus was placed on the integration of existing technologies and the establishment of a sustainable operating model.

The prototype of a distributed virtualization infrastructure, a shared image repository, and a self-service portal were implemented as part of the “bwCloud 1” project. The test environment enabled initial productive applications and proved the feasibility of a state service. Operating and cost models were developed and high-availability mechanisms were tested. The project results provided the basis for a sustainable supply of virtualization services at the state level, ensuring flexibility and scalability for universities.