Policy-Driven Configuration Propagation for Virtual Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face repetitive and burdensome customization processes when setting up multiple virtual machines on a host computer, as each virtual machine requires individual configuration and personalization of operating system and application settings, leading to potential conflicts and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A configuration propagation management system that selectively propagates configuration elements between a host and multiple guests based on a policy, monitoring changes and determining propagation based on source and destination operating system environments, allowing for automatic configuration of new guests and cross-operating system element mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple virtual machines are run on a host computer, then the ability to run different operating systems and application sets is improved, but the time and effort required for customization and personalization of each virtual machine increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically propagating configuration elements from the host computer to virtual machines during their creation or at scheduled times. This eliminates the need for users to manually customize each virtual machine after creation, as the configuration propagation occurs beforehand or automatically, significantly reducing the time and effort required for setup while maintaining the ability to run multiple different operating systems
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses copying by replicating configuration elements from the host computer to virtual machines. Instead of requiring users to manually configure each virtual machine from scratch, the system copies relevant configuration elements (such as settings, preferences, and application configurations) from the host to the virtual machines, dramatically reducing customization time while preserving operating system diversity
2Manufacturing precision
If each virtual machine is individually configured, then customization precision is improved, but the complexity of the configuration process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies segmentation by dividing the configuration process into two distinct parts: (1) host-level configuration management, and (2) virtual machine-specific configurations. The configuration propagation system handles the common elements at the host level, while allowing virtual machines to maintain their own specific configurations. This segmentation reduces the overall complexity by automating the repetitive portions of configuration while preserving the ability to customize individual virtual machines when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The configuration propagation system serves multiple functions simultaneously: it propagates configuration elements from the host to virtual machines, maintains configuration consistency across the system, allows for selective propagation based on virtual machine types, and preserves the ability for individual customization. This multi-functionality reduces complexity by consolidating multiple configuration tasks into a single automated system that handles both universal and specific configuration needs
Data Source
AI summary
Configuration elements are selectively propagated between a host and multiple guests, based on a policy. Configuration elements of the host and guests are monitored. Changes made to monitored configuration elements are detected. It is determined whether to propagate changed configuration elements between operating system environments based on the policy. It can be determined to propagate changed configuration element(s) from a source to one or more destinations in response to factors such as the identity and/or classification of the source, or the type, attribute(s), content and/or identity of the changed configuration element(s). The creation of new guests is detected. In response, at least one configuration element from at least one source is automatically propagated to a newly created guest.