Update to our VM Support Service

Upcoming changes to our virtual machine support policy

To better account for the effort involved in deploying, supporting, and maintaining virtual machines, SCS Computing Facilities (SCSCF) will update the virtual machine (VM) support policy and associated charges in the Fall of 2022.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Beginning September 1, 2022, we will no longer require VM host computers be under support with SCSCF. Additionally, we will no longer offer discounted charges on new supported VM deployments. Existing VMs that currently receive discounted support rates will be transitioned to full support costs on January 1, 2023.

WHY ARE WE MAKING THIS CHANGE?

In 2013, we introduced a discounted VM support model at a reduced rate to our community as an alternative to dual-boot systems. Our experience has shown us that virtual operating systems are just as demanding as physical operating systems when it comes to deployment, support, and maintenance.

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO

If you have an SCSCF-managed virtual machine and what to keep it, no action is required. Your VM will transitioned to full support rates on January 1, 2023.

If you have an SCSCF-managed virtual machine but are no longer using it or do not want to transition to full support rate, you can submit a retirement request.

If you want to run your own virtual machines or believe this policy change in support costs will create a hardship for you, CMU and SCSCF offer several VM solutions at no cost to our community. Visit our desktop virtualization page for more information.