Microsoft Learning Virtualization Strategy Update: Implementing 64-Bit Virtualization

Microsoft Learning Virtualization Strategy Update: Implementing 64-bit Virtualization

May 2008

Contents

Introduction

The Microsoft Commitment to x64 Compatibility

Microsoft Learning 64-bit Virtualization Strategy

Hardware Requirements

Software Requirements

Timeline for Classroom Update Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

The goal of Microsoft Learning is to provide high-quality, hands-on learning content by utilizing virtualization technologies. As Microsoft technologies migrate to support the x64 platform, the Microsoft Learning strategy will include 64-bit virtual machines built on Hyper-V™ technology. To deliver hands-on content using 64-bit virtual machines will require hardware and software upgrades to classroom computers.

The Microsoft Commitment to x64 Compatibility

Microsoft has made a broad commitment that server and application products support the x64 platform. Currently there are several x64-compatible versions of products, including Windows Server® 2003 R2, Windows Server® 2008, Microsoft SQL Server® 2005, Microsoft SQL Server® 2008, and Microsoft Exchange Server 2007, whichis an x64-only product.Based on the Common Engineering Criteria for Windows Server System, all new releases must be x64 compatible. In response to this x64 computing commitment, Microsoft Learning has defined a strategy for 64-bit virtualization needs.

Learn more about Microsoft x64 computing

Microsoft Learning 64-bit Virtualization Strategy

As Microsoft technologies migrate to support the x64 platform, 64-bit virtual machines become a requirement to deliver hands-on learning experiences. To address this requirement,Microsoft Learningcreates 64-bit virtual machines that use Microsoft Hyper-V technology. Microsoft Learning has also defined a classroom environment to support 64-bit virtual machines that includes x64-based hardware and 64-bit Windows Server 2008 withHyper-V.In order to deliver Microsoft Learning classroom training that includes 64-bit virtual machines, student and instructor computers must meet or exceed these requirements.

Hardware Requirements

Microsoft Learning has published Hardware Level 6 hardware requirements, which includes a 64-bit processor with support for virtualization technology

Hardware Level 6

64-bit Intel Virtualization Technology or AMD Virtualization processor (2.8 GHz dual core or better recommended)
Dual 120 GB hard disks 7200 RPM SATA or better (striped)
4 GB RAM expandable to 8GB or higher
DVD (dual layer recommended)
Network adapter
Sound card
Video adapter aero-capable recommended
Super VGA monitor(17 inch/ 43 cm)

Software Requirements

64-bit Windows Server 2008 Enterprise Edition
Hyper-V role configured
Microsoft LearningLab Launcher – Hyper-V version

Timeline for Classroom Update Requirements

The first Microsoft Learning courses that will require 64-bit virtual machines will be the Windows®Small Business Server 2008 and Windows®Essential Business Server 2008 courses. In addition to these courses, there will be a course on Hyper-V, which will require x64-based computers in the classroom. These courses are currently scheduledfor release to manufacturing in the second half (H2) ofcalendar year (CY)2008. Microsoft Learning is also currently planning to include 64-bit virtual machines for the next version of Exchange Server courseware due in the second half of CY2009

64-Bit Virtualization and Hardware Level 6 Requirements

H2 CY2008 / H2 CY2009

Windows Small Business Server 2008 (6445A)
Windows Essential Business Server 2008 (6446A)
Hyper-V (6422A)

Microsoft Exchange Server 14

Frequently Asked Questions

How do we support both 64-bit virtual machines and legacy 32-bit courseware in the classroom?

Currently, 32-bit courseware must be delivered on computersrunning Microsoft Virtual PC 2007 Service Pack 1(SP1) and Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 R2 SP1.All 64-bit virtual machines require Hyper-V and are not supported in Virtual Server 2005 R2 or any future versions. Virtual PC and Virtual Server are not supported on computers running Hyper-V. Microsoft Learning is working on potential solutions that may help alleviate the different classroom setup requirements.

What other courses require Hardware Level 6?

A few courses were released with Hardware Level 6 listed as a requirement. However, these courses do not require 64-bit virtual machines and typically should run on a Hardware Level 5.5 computer. Hardware Level 6 was specified to take advantage of the increased RAM and improved performance of the x64 hardware. These courses include:

5177A, 5178A, 5179A – Microsoft Office Communications Server

5117A – Windows Vista®

6451A – Microsoft System Center Configuration Manager

How will licensing, which will be required for classroom computers, be handled for Windows Server 2008?

Operating system licenses can be obtained in the same way that they are now. For partners, licenses will be made available through the Microsoft Partner Program.

When will the Hyper-V version of the Microsoft Learning Lab Launcher be available?

Microsoft Learning is planning an updated version of the Microsoft Learning Lab Launcher or updated classroom procedures with the availability of the Windows Small Business Server 2008 courseware in H2 of CY2009.

What is the base image strategy for 64-bit bases?

New 64-bit base images will be created for Windows Small Business Server 2008 and Windows Essential Business Server2008. As additional technologies require 64-bit operating systems, Microsoft Learning will create 64-bit base images as needed.

Can I manage my Windows Server 2008-based student computers from my Windows Vista-basedcomputer?

For remote administration of Windows Server 2008-based student computers from a Windows Vista-based computer, you must be running Windows Vista with SP1, which includes the RDC 6.1 protocol.

Whom can I contact for any additional questions regarding Microsoft Learning virtualization strategy?

Please send an e-mail message with your questions to:

Chris Stark

Technologist

Microsoft Learning