Overview
Yale needed to set up a new host pool that had capacity to be used by any and all staff users.
Technical Explanation
After doing a cost analysis using a few tools for cost analysis (one of which I authored in PowerShell [link coming soon]) we learned we were right on the cusp of upgrading to Azure NetApp Files. We eventually decided to go for Premium Azure File Shares instead. For VMs, we went with 20 session hosts to start with and would adjust as needed. We set up a scaling plan that kept one session host on at all times and the rest turned on using depth-first 70%.
We worked with end users from different departments to see what applications they need. We packaged them using a proprietary PowerShell software packaging template and put them in MECM and a Task Sequence.
We keep software and OS updated constantly in cooperation with ISO, and rebuild the images from scratch twice a year.
Side Note
This project was put on hold due to its umbrella project being put on hold. The Host Pool was and is still ready to go.
Tools Used
- Microsoft Azure Pricing Calculator
- Proprietary Azure Cost Calculator
- Proprietary SOP
- Azure storage cost calculator estimation and recommendation script (Authored by me)