Technology Retirement: Oracle Linux and OVM Server and the Need to Modernize

There’s an imminent transition to be navigated in the world of server technology, and it’s one that will impact a wide array of organizations that rely on Linux and OVM (Oracle VM) versions. December 31st, 2024 marks the last day to receive Extended Support on Oracle Linux 6 and Premier Support for Oracle Linux 7. Additionally, Oracle VM Server 3 has already reached its end on June 30th, 2024. With the support curtain falling on these stalwarts of the industry, it’s time to look forward and prepare for the future.

Oracle Linux and OVM – Pioneers in Their Field

Since its inception, Oracle Linux has been central to server operations, providing a highly scalable, reliable, and secure platform. It powered systems globally, delivering robust performance and advanced capabilities. Oracle VM, on the other hand, based on Oracle Linux 6 kernel and the Xen hypervisor, revolutionized virtualization technology. Introduced in 2011, it allowed for hard partitioning of Oracle Database and WebLogic workloads to specific processor cores, ensuring compliance with licensing requirements and providing countless businesses a robust and practical virtualization solution.

Modernization and Oracle Linux Virtualization Manager (OLVM)

As one era concludes, a new one begins to emerge. The discontinuation of support for Oracle Linux 6 & 7 and Oracle VM Server 3 presents an opportunity to embrace the new-age technology solutions on the market. Replacing these services is crucial to maintaining the functionality, security, and efficacy of your business operations.

In 2019, Oracle launched the Oracle Linux Virtualization Manager (OLVM) for on-premises customers. Built on trusted open-source oVirt Project technology, OLVM utilizes a kernel-based Virtual Machine environment (KVM) as a hypervisor. OLVM also supports hard-partitioning of guests for limiting licenses, a feature that was exclusively available on OVM before, making it a prospective choice for organizations looking to modernize.

Oracle Cloud Infrastructure: Your Solution to Modernization

While OLVM is a good option for on-premises, for those looking to reap the benefits of the cloud we at Apps Associates recommend Oracle Cloud Infrastructure. Here are three compelling reasons why:

1) Oracle Linux Support on OCI is free. Organizations can take advantage of automatic software updates and security patches, ensuring their systems remain up-to-date and protected against vulnerabilities. Moreover, the seamless integration of Oracle Linux with other Oracle Cloud services simplifies deployment and management, allowing businesses to focus on innovation and growth rather than infrastructure maintenance.

2) Organizations running Oracle technology software on OCI are eligible for Oracle Support Rewards. Oracle Support Rewards allow organizations to earn credits for their Oracle Cloud Infrastructure use, which can be applied to future purchases or service costs, effectively reducing overall expenditures and enhancing the value of their investment in Oracle’s solutions.

3) There is no cost for Oracle Java in OCI if any of your systems use Oracle Java.

By making the shift onto Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, businesses can continue leveraging Oracle’s advanced virtualization capabilities while also benefitting from the scalability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of cloud technology.

As a certified Oracle Partner, Apps Associates is primed and ready to help your organization navigate this transition smoothly. Regardless of which option is right for you, the Apps team can help you select and execute on this next phase of your journey. If you’re interested in learning more about how we can assist in your modernization efforts, please reach out to us at [email protected].