Remotely Accessible Systems for Computing Sciences Disciplines

Abstract

Like most other academic disciplines that require any amount of hands-on learning, requiring access to specific technologies, delivering computing curricula, and performing computing research online can be a difficult task. By using system virtualization and remotely accessible computing however, a near real world environment can be realized. When rolled out in tandem, these remotely accessible virtualization initiatives can use a common hardware set and/or existing computing resources within the academic organization or via cloud computing, thus reducing the initial and ongoing costs for servers, storage, and support. The goal of this chapter is to present a logical and technical framework from which educators can implement complex systems laboratories accessible at a distance. The chapter will also document the history of the use of virtualization in systems laboratories, the many benefits of virtualization, and future trends in the remoting and virtualization technologies.