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Linux on IBM System z: Performance Measurement and Tuning

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An IBM Redbooks publication

Abstract

In this IBM Redbooks publication we examine performance measurement and tuning for running Linux as a z/VM guest on an IBM System z z9 machine with a focus on the SLES 10 2.6 kernel and z/VM 5.3.

This book is intended for system administrators and IT architects responsible for deploying Linux servers running under z/VM. We examine performance concepts and identify tuning parameters that influence system performance. Using examples, we investigate performance and tuning topics for the memory, processor, DASD, and networking subsystems. Performance is analyzed at both the z/VM and Linux level. We provide tuning recommendations and guidance intended to maximize investment in Linux for System z.

The system used in the writing of this book is an IBM System z running z/VM Version 5.3 in an LPAR. The Linux distribution used in this book is Novell SUSE Linux Enterprise Server 10 (based on a Linux 2.6 kernel).

The intent of this book is to provide guidance on measuring and optimizing performance using an existing System z configuration. The examples demonstrate how to make effective use of your System z investment. The workloads used are chosen to exercise a specific subsystem.

Table of contents

Chapter 1. Virtualization and server consolidation
Chapter 2. Tuning basics on System z
Chapter 3. Linux monitoring tools
Chapter 4. z/VM storage concepts
Chapter 5. Linux virtual memory concepts
Chapter 6. Tuning memory for z/VM Linux guests
Chapter 7. Linux swapping
Chapter 8. CPU resources and the z/VM scheduler
Chapter 9. Tuning processor performance for z/VM Linux guests
Chapter 10. Tuning disk performance for z/VM Linux guests
Chapter 11. Network considerations
Appendix A. WebSphere performance benchmark sample workload
Appendix B. WebSphere Studio Workload Simulator
Appendix C. Mstone workload generator
Appendix D. Emergency scanning and below 2 GB line constraint
Appendix E. Additional material

Profile

Publish Date
19 February 2008

Last Update
28 February 2008


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Author(s)

ISBN

0738485586

IBM Form Number
SG24-6926-01

Number of pages
242