This IBM Redbooks publication discusses running Linux under z/VM on IBM System z9 and zSeries platforms. We describe enhancements available in z/VM Version 5.1. The intended audience for this book is IT administrators responsible for installing and configuring z/VM 5.1 systems running Linux guests. Using Fibre Channel Protocol (FCP), z/VM 5/1 can be installed on and operate from SCSI disks. Configured as emulated Fixed Block Architecture (FBA) disks, z/VM 5.1 can use FCP-attached disks for its system paging, spooling, directory, and minidisks. z/VM 5.1 adds new functions for Virtual Switches (VSWITCH). For increased network security, guests must have authorization before connecting to a VSWITCH. z/VM 5.1 introduces VSWITCH Layer 2 support. Operating at Layer 2, a VSWITCH delivers and receives network traffic in Ethernet frames. This provides the ability to handle non-IP protocols such as SNA, NetBIOS, and IPX. In addition, Layer 2 support reduces network latency and CPU overhead.

This IBM Redbooks publication discusses configuring and administering Linux systems running on IBM System z9 and zSeries. It is intended for system administrators and IT architects responsible for deploying Linux servers on System z9 and zSeries servers. We examine new features and enhancements of the Linux 2.6 kernel. We demonstrate Linux device configuration using sysfs and udev and discuss running Linux servers under z/VM. Networking options available for Linux on IBM System z9 and zSeries are examined in detail. Configuration of FCP-attached SCSI disks and traditional ECKD storage is demonstrated.

This IBM Redbooks publication discusses Performance Toolkit for VM, a performance monitoring and analysis tool for z/VM. Derived from the earlier FCON/ESA product, Performance Toolkit for VM enables system administrators to collect and analyze VM performance data. Both real-time and history data can be processed by Performance Toolkit for VM, and it provides most of the functions that are available in Real Time Monitor (RTM) and Performance Reporting Facility (PRF). In this book, we present an overview of the functions and features of Performance Toolkit for VM. We show how to navigate through its major monitoring screens and configure it. We also describe configuration for monitoring remote z/VM systems. Using examples, we illustrate how to monitor your z/VM system to identify potential performance problems. Major performance factors for running Linux guests under z/VM are discussed.