CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005)Server AdministrationEasy
A server administrator needs to quickly deploy five new Linux virtual machines (VMs) with identical configurations for a testing environment. Each VM requires a specific set of packages and user accounts. Which of the following methods would be MOST efficient for this deployment?
- AUsing a kickstart file during installation for each VM.
- BCreating a VM template from a fully configured VM and deploying from it.
- CManual installation of the OS and packages on each VM.
- DCloning an existing production VM and reconfiguring it.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Creating a VM template from a fully configured VM and deploying from it.
Creating a VM template (or golden image) from a fully configured VM allows for rapid, consistent deployment of multiple identical VMs, which is the most efficient method for this scenario.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A kickstart file automates parts of the installation but still requires initiating an installation process for each VM, which is less efficient than deploying from a pre-built template.
- C. Manual installation is time-consuming and prone to inconsistencies, making it inefficient for multiple identical deployments.
- D. Cloning a production VM might introduce unnecessary applications or configurations and requires significant reconfiguration, making it less ideal than a purpose-built template.
VM Template (Golden Image)
A VM template, or golden image, is a pre-configured virtual machine that serves as a master copy for creating new VMs with identical settings, OS, and applications.
- Ensures consistency across multiple VM deployments.
- Significantly reduces deployment time and effort.
- Ideal for scaling out identical server roles (e.g., web servers, test environments).
Memory trick: Templates Create Rapid, Identical Virtual Machines.