The software-defined data model enables MSPs to more effectively meet customers’ needs, but the first step to the SDDC is deciding which implementation option will work best.

All elements of an SDDC are virtualized–from servers to storage to the network. Hardware is managed via software, which enables organizations to effectively allocate resources and scale up and down as needed. Managed service providers that implement software-defined data centers have a huge leg up on the competition, as it enables them to meet customer needs not just quickly and flexibly, but also proactively.

How do you get to the software-defined data center? There are three main paths:

1. Build your own: With this approach, companies procure hardware and SDDC software, and integrate all of the elements on premise. On this path, companies can evolve their SDDC over time.

2. Use converged infrastructure: In the converged infrastructure model, compute, storage and network components are combined in a single chassis with a software stack preinstalled. This approach simplifies hardware integration, enabling organizations to add other SDDC elements at their own pace.

3. Leverage hyper-converged infrastructure: HCI is perhaps the shortest—and easiest–route to SDDC. With HCI, organizations get the full benefit of SDDC almost immediately because all components—including network, storage and compute systems, as well as cloud management and reference architecture–are preinstalled and integrated. In this model, organizations have a single point of management for SDDC, and scale out is a matter of simply adding more units.

MSPs will need to consider cost, internal skill sets and a number of other factors to determine which path is best for them and their customers. They will also need to consider which SDDC vendor provides the kind of support and flexibility needed to accommodate business and budget needs. But, no matter how MSPs get to their destination, SDDC will open up pathways to new opportunities for their own and their customers’ organizations.

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