Technical Component Translation Guide: VMware vs Apache CloudStack with KVM
Organizations evaluating Apache CloudStack often come from environments built around the VMware ecosystem. While the core infrastructure concepts are similar, the terminology and architecture can differ significantly. For engineers and architects familiar with VMware, understanding how familiar components translate into the CloudStack world can accelerate evaluation, migration planning, and operational adoption. This article provides a […]
10 Reasons Why to Choose Apache CloudStack as a VMware Alternative
Apache CloudStack is fully open-source and built on open standards. Unlike proprietary stacks, you retain full control of your infrastructure, roadmap, and costs without dependency on a single vendor or licensing model. CloudStack with KVM dramatically reduces licensing and support costs compared to VMware environments. Providers achieve significant savings by moving to open-source infrastructure without […]
Apache CloudStack Netris Integration
About Netris Switch Fabric Netris Switch Fabric provides an intent-based approach to network management. Instead of configuring switches, routers, and firewalls manually, administrators define the desired network outcomes, Netris then translates those intents into the necessary configurations across the infrastructure. Its controller includes a REST API and graphical dashboard for visibility, automation, and lifecycle management […]
Instance Lease in Apache CloudStack | CloudStack Feature First Look
Starting with the 4.21 release, Apache CloudStack introduces Instance Lease, a lifecycle control mechanism that allows cloud operators to define how long an Instance can exist and what should happen when that time is reached. In day-to-day cloud operations, it is common for Instances to remain running long after their original purpose is gone. Temporary […]
How a Managed Service Provider Can Monetise On Top of Apache CloudStack
Managed Service Providers (MSPs) are facing increasing competition as they strive to retain customers and maximise profitability. Many MSPs are seeking ways to diversify and enhance their service portfolios to gain a larger market share. While they are accustomed to reselling vendor solutions such as VMware, Kaseya, Microsoft, and Acronis, they often struggle to develop […]
Automatic Seeding for ARM SystemVM Templates
One of the key additions in 4.20.1 is improved logic for SystemVM template seeding. When a zone contains aarch64 (ARM) hosts, CloudStack now automatically downloads and registers the appropriate aarch64 SystemVM template—reducing the need for manual intervention. Unlike x86_64 templates, the aarch64 version is not bundled with installation packages (RPM/DEB) and is downloaded on demand. […]
A Guide on Choosing GPUs for Your Cloud
Graphics Processing Units (GPUs) are no longer just for gaming or graphics rendering. In today’s cloud environments, GPUs power artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), high-performance computing (HPC), and even virtual desktops. For cloud service providers (CSPs), system integrators, and enterprises, choosing the right GPUs can directly influence performance, scalability, and cost-efficiency. This guide will […]
Apache CloudStack 4.21 FAQ: Expert Answers from ShapeBlue
What you’ll find here Practical answers about the new Extensions (XaaS) Framework, CKS/Kubernetes & CSI, GPU, Netris SDN, and more. CloudStack XaaS Extension Framework Q: What is the CloudStack XaaS Extension Framework and why was it introduced? A: The CloudStack XaaS Extension Framework allows operators and developers to integrate CloudStack with external systems such as […]
Auto‑Seed SystemVM Template for Multi‑Arch Zones
Apache CloudStack 4.20.1 introduces automatic SystemVM template seeding for ARM64 Hosts. When the first ARM64 host is added to a zone, CloudStack downloads and registers the aarch64 template automatically. Combined with the new system.vm.preferred.architecture setting and architecture-aware filters in the UI/API, this feature streamlines mixed-architecture deployments and removes the need for manual template management. Automatic […]
New Image‑Selection UI and OS Category Management
Apache CloudStack 4.21 will introduce a category‑driven Template and ISO image‑selection UI, fully programmable OS‑category APIs, and an updated default list that mirrors today’s most‑used operating systems. Users will find Templates and ISOs faster, while operators gain fine‑grained control over how operating systems are organised and surfaced. Feature Overview Before CloudStack 4.21, the image […]
