Hi folks,
I'm trying to spark an initiative to adopt some open-source tech in my workplace. I'm wondering if anyone has any input on good alternatives (that are reasonable in a Windows environment):
SCCM, SCOM, VDI (likely Citrix XenDesktop), MDM (XenMobile/AirWatch), VMware vSphere/vCenter
We have a Microsoft Enterprise Agreement, but really have not taken advantage of it yet. Since we are a Windows shop w/ an EA license, I understand that it might make more sense to just stick with the traditional route. The only one of these we have implemented so far is VMWare, the rest are all things we're looking to do in the next year. There are a few reasons I want to shake things up: 1) We spend an assload of money on licensing (and we all know Citrix/VMWare are not cheap). We have had a couple years where projects get tabled due to Opex crushing Capex. 2) I think it is foolish to not consider the benefits of a hybrid environment and the vastness of OSS. There is a potential of not just cheaper, but better solutions. 3) Selfish, I want the experience. I know some of these would be great to have on a resume, but I would like to break into the Linux scene - in which case these don't really help.
I've looked a little at KVM, XenServer, & RHEV for the Virtual side of things, and am somewhat familiar with Puppet/Chef for CM. Does anyone have some experience or knowledge of which of these systems fits best into the Windows world? Am I just putting a square peg in a round hole? Do I need to shut up, sit down, and eat my Microsoft pie? :)
EDIT: To expand on the environment... We primarily use Windows Server 2012 R2, our desktops are Windows 7 (and <10% Mac), and we have a Unix box that hosts our ERP - which I solely manage. Many of our employees just use the ERP and MS Office; about a third use AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, 3DSMax, etc. Most of our storage is HP SAN (Lefthand variety).
Thanks for any insight!
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