Starting point / motivation

Since 2018, bwCloud-OS (Gen2) has established itself as a reliable state service for “Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)” in Baden-Württemberg, covering the needs of researchers, teachers, and IT operations staff. The existing infrastructure and its services are now to be supplemented with important value-added services, including integration into campus and learning management systems, the provision of Windows operating system images, the connection of virtual desktop infrastructures (VDI), and GPU usage. In addition, the climate compatibility and IT security level of the service are becoming increasingly important. The goal is to transform bwCloud-OS into a permanently financed, sustainable, and secure service structure.

 

Objectives 
The bwCloud 3 project focuses on expanding the range of services through explicit service components, improving user-friendliness and security, and implementing a sustainable business model. Key objectives include integrating collaboration tools, increasing energy efficiency, and creating a comprehensive security architecture based on proven standards. In addition, governance and financing for long-term operation are to be ensured and a step-by-step financing model established.

 

Tasks

The tasks include the development and introduction of new service offerings, including a multi-cloud overall architecture, a web portal with app store, platform services, and virtual desktop infrastructures. At the same time, comprehensive security measures will be implemented, best practices established, and awareness measures carried out. A key work package is the establishment of a stable business model, including financing and governance structures, to ensure long-term operation independent of external project financing. Furthermore, the hardware will be renewed and targeted green IT measures implemented.

 

Results
bwCloud 3 expands the bwCloud OS platform with innovative services that better meet the requirements of research, teaching, and administration. Users benefit from simplified access to virtual resources and new applications, such as digital learning environments and video conferencing. The security architecture is significantly strengthened, and a sustainable financing model is established to ensure long-term operation. The ecological sustainability of the service is also promoted through targeted green IT measures.