Author

Author Hello! Im Alistair Finch, and Ive been immersed in the world of virtualization and application delivery for over 15 years. My passion lies in simplifying complex IT infrastructures and empowering businesses to leverage technology for greater efficiency and productivity.

My journey began with a deep dive into server administration and quickly evolved into a fascination with virtualization. I became particularly intrigued by the challenges and opportunities presented by platforms like Citrix XenApp and XenServer, as well as VMware ESX and Hyper-V. Over the years, Ive had the privilege of working with a wide range of organizations, from small startups to large enterprises, helping them design, implement, and optimize their virtualized environments.

My Experience

My hands-on experience includes:

  • Citrix XenApp and XenDesktop: Designing and implementing secure, high-performance application delivery solutions. Troubleshooting XML service issues and optimizing performance.
  • Citrix NetScaler: Expertise in configuring NetScaler MPX and VPX appliances for load balancing, application security, and optimized user experience, including deep dives into one-arm and two-arm deployments.
  • VMware ESX: Optimizing XenApp on VMware ESX, ensuring maximum resource utilization and performance.
  • XenServer: Architecting and managing XenServer environments, including advanced features like dynamic memory control and direct VHD booting. Creating bootable media for installation.
  • Microsoft Hyper-V: Leveraging Hyper-V for Provisioning Services (PVS) vDisk offline maintenance and sharing ISO images, especially in hybrid environments.
  • BYOC Policies: Developing and implementing Bring Your Own Computer (BYOC) policies that balance security, user convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
  • Exchange Server: Extensive experience with Exchange Server, including replicating public folders across servers.

My Philosophy

I believe in a practical, hands-on approach to technology. My goal is to provide clear, concise, and actionable information that helps IT professionals solve real-world problems. Im always eager to learn new things and share my knowledge with the community.

Beyond the technical aspects, Im a strong advocate for clear communication and collaboration. I strive to bridge the gap between technical teams and business stakeholders, ensuring that technology solutions are aligned with organizational goals. I believe that the best solutions are those that are not only technically sound but also easy to manage and maintain.

I hope my insights and experiences, shared through my articles and contributions, can help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of virtualization and application delivery. Feel free to connect and share your own experiences!

Sincerely,
Alistair Finch