Managing data centers via wireless link

Today, if they do perform systems-management tasks remotely, most administrators typically do so over telnet and a wired connection located in the same building as the systems they're managing. If they do access the data center remotely, it is usually to review reports or alerts via a cell phone, not to actually change user accounts or configure systems management settings.

But one analyst is not in favor of suggesting Wi-Fi as a proper remote management connection at all.

"Regardless of how you secure a WLANWLAN, it's usually a no-no to connect to mission-critical data center infrastructure that way," says George Hamilton, director of enterprise infrastructure at Yankee Group Research Inc. in Boston. "If you're in the building, why do you need to connect to the data center LAN from a WLAN You can telnet in" or access the data center via a compact Java virtual machine that runs on a portable device, also known as a KVM. Alles zu WLAN auf CIO.de

Still, even when there's a LAN port in every cubicle and conference room, wireless hookups would allow admins to get more mobile, address issues with individuals or departments from a laptop and pretty much work from anywhere. And even though it's less than ideal from a security standpoint, Hamilton agrees that demand might necessitate allowing the wireless option for data center management.

"Given proper security, it does give the operator flexibility to access the environment where it is convenient for him or her," says Hamilton. "An admin could go to a particular [software or hardware] engineer in the building and troubleshoot in their presence." One way this could happen: Hamilton points to companies that provide remote-management features for smart phones and handhelds.