Virtual servers

ZIMT operates a highly available and fail-safe platform for virtual servers, from which they benefit directly and without further measures. Compared to conventional individual physical servers, this overall system usually provides a significantly better quality of service. There is full management access to the virtual systems (comparable to the direct connection of a screen/mouse/keyboard to a physical server), where it is ensured that each user can only access the systems assigned to them.

The basic configuration of a virtual server comprises 1 CPU, 2 GB RAM and 50 GB hard disk space. Once all the details for a setup have been worked out, the virtual system is usually set up and activated at short notice.

Users can apply for supported guest systems (Linux and Windows). However, the operating system and any necessary licenses must be installed and procured by the users themselves. Once the virtual server has been handed over, the user is responsible for the system. In addition to potential problems within the virtual server, this includes in particular all tasks for secure and proper server operation. If you need a VM for university purposes but do not have a cost center/PSP, e.g. as a student initiative, please contact us.

The ZIMT monitors the proper functioning of the platform, ensures necessary updates and eliminates any errors that occur promptly and with high priority. In the event of technical problems with the service, the ZIMT IT Support Desk is available at support@zimt.uni-siegen.de (telephone -4777).

Instructions for use

You have access to a selection of ISO images of various operating systems from the management interface. If you require a different ISO, we will be happy to integrate it for you. Please ensure that the cost center/PSP as well as the contact persons and authorized persons are always kept up to date. VMs that can no longer be billed are switched off and scheduled for deletion. VMs are also switched off if they pose a threat to IT security.

You have the option of having your VMs backed up free of charge via the ZIMT backup service. To do this, please contact our IT support desk at support@zimt.uni-siegen.de (telephone -4777). As snapshots have a negative impact on the performance of the overall system, we grant the rights to do so only on request. We reserve the right to automatically delete older snapshots. Please contact us if you have any questions or problems.

Prices

Additional resources (if required) can be specified and requested in the comments field of the application form. The cost is 4 euros per vCPU per semester and 8 euros for each additional GB of RAM per semester. It is also possible to receive a free test system, which you can use to test your use case extensively and to determine and define your resource requirements in conjunction with us.