We have talked about linked clones in the past in these two posts on this blog:
- Demo: The Benefit of Linked Clones in Dev/Test Environments (also explains what linked clones are)
- Citrix XenServer, Microsoft Hyper-V and VMware ESX Server Impact on Virtual Lab Automation
There is little doubt and debate over the tremendous benefit of using linked clones in a lab environment (where the rate of change is high, the collaboration between users is high and many users access the shared lab infrastructure).
In an environment where there is a high degree of flux, and linked clones are used abundantly it is difficult for IT administrators and lab users to keep track of the “linked clones tree”. I.e., what are the dependencies between the various VMs? Which VMs are parents – which ones are children etc.
Some of our customers have provided this feedback based on their experience in very active VMLogix LabManager deployments. To address this, a shortly upcoming release of VMLogix LabManager will include the ability for users and administrators to view the linked clone tree and dependencies. A screenshot is below:
The linked clones tree which shows the virtual machine dependency for every linked clone
And here is a brief movie that demonstrates this functionality:
If you would like an evaluation license of VMLogix LabManager, do make a request on our website.
- Srihari Palangala
