412
Performance Comparison of Three Models in
Computer Network Cost Saving
AbadiNugroho
Department of Informatics, Sekolah Tinggi Teknologi ( STITEK ) Bontang, Indonesia
Abstract - Computer network model will determine the amount of charge needed to build its infrastructure. A mistake in the determination of the network model in an agency would be bad in the budget should be spent. In fact, in the purchase of goods such as computers, software licenses and other supporting infrastructure today is still relatively expensive. Therefore, required an adjustment effort needs with costs to be incurred by an institution to build a computer networks. In this paper will discuss the comparison of the three models that are cost effective computer networks between LTSP (Linux Terminal Service Project), Userful and N-Computing. This research was conducted by calculating the costs that need to build the network and the effectiveness of treatment in terms of the three models in use.
Keywords - Computer Network Model, LTSP, Userful and NComputing.
1. Introduction
The amount of the cost required to build a computer network is not small. The network model is in use will determine the amount of costs that must be issued by the institution. Therefore, before building a network in advance should be calculated carefully all the needs and costs. Calculation of needs such as hardware, software, power consumption necessary to note well. Each model has a computer network load electric power varies according to the device used. More and more use of hardware typically the greater the power that is required. According to John Houser in his research indicates that any libraries are looking for ways to save money to build a network to take advantage of opensouce software. Because it is feared will someday be impaired, the economy and the climate changes that affect the decision. Open souce software if installed into the right hardware will be able to reduce the power consumption [2]. To make cost savings, there are several alternative ways that can be used is the first approach by replacing the windows operating system
with Linux distribution on each PC. Then a second approach by utilizing non-LTSP multiuser configuration. The third approach is to use the Linux Terminal Server Project (LTSP) [3].
The purpose of doing the selection of the type of network that will be used is to reduce the amount of expenses that will be used. When using open source software it will be able to reduce the financing terms of the software [4].
2. Literature Review
2.1 LTSP (Linux Terminal Service Project)
Linux Terminal Server Project (LTSP) is efficient solutions to build a computer networks. LTSP configuration is quite inexpensive and effective for schools, businesses and organizations worldwide. Besides cheap LTSP is also quite easy to install and distribution to the thin client.
Together with a thin client PC can also be used to search the web, send e-mail to make documents and run other desktop applications. LTSP not only improves Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) but can provide increased value compared with normal computing. LTSP network can run Linux and Windows server applications as well as provide protection against viruses [8].
N-Computing network model can be seen in Figure 1: Linux Terminal Server Project (LTSP) is a Thin Client Support for Linux servers. Thin client here is a network where the client computer (LTSP workstation) do not require a hard drive so that for each client computer does not need an operating system.
413 Fig. 1 The network model LTSP
Broadly speaking, the working principle of LTSP that there is an LTSP server installed operating systems complete with applications that will be used by the client computer, then the computer server connected to the client computer and the client computer to access the operating system and applications on the LTSP server. All applications on the same server as the one on the client computer.
2.2 NComputing
NComputing is the first terminal or the central computer in the world that does not require a CPU, hard-drive, or CD-ROM and can be used just like a regular PC. With NComputing exclusive UTMA (Ultra Thin Multi-Access) technology, NComputing can expand your PC up to 10 computer terminals. NComputing can be used for offices and laboratories in schools. NComputing device is quite simple and does not use a lot of places to put equipment NComputing.
NComputing is a useful tool to make virtualization hardware and software for the functioning of distributing virtual desktop for one computer to multiple users simultaneously. NComputing network model can be seen in Figure 2.
Fig 2. The network model NComputing
How it works closely with NComputing thin client, but there is a difference is in terms of straming media and sound quality as well as cost savings in the need to use tools. NComputing can be more efficient than thin clients from both electricity consumption and other ancillary equipment. NComputing supports Windows and Linux operating systems. NComputing name is derived from the mathematical form of "n" which means it is the addition of a continuous, in which case the user additions to divide a computer. According to research conducted by Pham that NComputing models can improve both energy cost savings of electric energy as well as of the devices used [5].
2.3 Userful
Userful Multiplier is a desktop virtualization solution that is most easy to implement and economical. In addition, any Userful offers the features of a full PC including high-quality video display simply by using standard hardware [1]. At userful system users just simply add a monitor, mouse and keyboard extra to run the system. Userful network model can be seen in Figure 3.
Fig. 3 Model userful network
Userful can save costs by using a ratio of one computer can work simultaneously with 10 work stations. 60% savings on hardware costs and 80% in electricity costs each year [7]. Another source explained that userful offers non-LTSP solution to share a single system for up to 10 users. Userful claims that the system implemented will reduce CO2 emissions by 15 tons each year and each of the systems that run [6]. The network model can be an alternative model of computer networks that can be used for cost-effective network.
3. Methodology
In this study using several methods used some of them as follows:
3.1 Literature
This method is done to get information and knowledge from the literature relating to the object to be examined.
414 The study of literature comes from journals, books and information on the website.
3.2 Design and Trial of the Three Models
After getting a few references there are researchers perform cost calculations used to construct the model and noted the costs in spend. In addition, researchers also performed an analysis of the performance of the existing models and estimate how much efficiency in getting from the model.
4. Result and Discussion
4.1 Implementation of Computer Network LTSP (Linux Terminal Server Project)
4.1.1 Server Configuration
LTSP servers used in (Linux Terminal Server Project) is the same as on regular servers, IP has been configured, and the LTSP server also requires a DHCP server that will give identity to the client computer. The operating system used is ubuntulinux server and installed LTSP server.
4.1.2 Client Configuration
Client used in LTSP network does not require a hard drive, so it does not require any installation or configuration of the client, the client computer must have a NIC only be used as a liaison between the client and server. Before making sure the computer's BIOS settings that the first boot will be performed by the NIC. Client computer that is already connected to the network, after being turned on will directly boot into the next network searching for a DHCP server to provide IP to the client's identity. Once finished booting will go directly to user desktop are made.
4.1.3 Performance
Typically, for the maintenance of a client in the computer lab, are principally located at the site of the client computer. With LTSP client computer system is not installed an operating system. All of them utilizing cloning technology, which is a great PC server accessed by many PC workstations via LAN network in order to feel the speed similar to the server PC. This can save up to 75% of procurement. For treatment use of OS licensed GPL (open source) then LTSP is free of license fees paid than the OS that can easily penetrate the thousands, or tens of thousands of dollars.
4.1.4 Fees Required 4.1.4.1 Cost of Procurement
Table 1. Cost of Procurement LTSP network
1 unit server (IBM system x3200 M2-36A) = IDR 9,950,000 3 units PC client non hardisk@Rp 2.200.000 = IDR 6,600,000 4 Monitor(LCD LG 17” Wide) @1.258.000 =IDR 5,032,000
4 Mouse USB (Sturdy) @35.000 =IDR 140,000
4 Keyboad USB (Sturdy) @ 39.000 =IDR 156,000
3 Combo @2500 x 6 =IDR 15,000
1 Hub/switch D-link 8 port (DES-1008D) =IDR 180,000
RJ45 @1.000 x 10 =IDR 10,000
UTP @3.500 x 10 =IDR 35,000
Crimping Tools =IDR 125,000
LAN Tester =IDR 25,000
Screwdriver Plus =IDR 16,000
Installation costs servers =IDR 145,000
Network Installation Costs =IDR 50,000
415 At LTSP network does not use a hard drive, so for the procurement costs reduced by the client computer hard drive or IDR 2,200,000. Then the cost of installation only on the server because the Operating System was taken from servers through network created. And it is also much faster in pembangunann network. Because the setting was more focused on the server instead of on each client computer. So the acquisition costs amounted to IDR 22.479 million.
4.1.4.2 Maintenance Costs
Table 2.Maintenance costsLTSP network Server maintenance = IDR 145,000 Network maintenance = IDR 50,000
amount = IDR 195,000
4.2 Implementation of Computer Network NComputing.
Configuration is done on the server-computing n the same as the configuration of the server normally, the IP settings on the server. NComputing server can also be embedded DHCP server, this will facilitate the NComputing client configuration because it does not require IP configuration. But if it is not installed the DHCP server, the client configuration required IP and gateway, the gateway IP address of the server is loaded. After the server configuration so, for remotely client and that the client can connect to the client, on the server computer is required installation of NComputing driver, it will connect the server computer to the client computer. The operating system used in the n-computing server computer is windows 2000 and using the default driver of the NComputing.
4.2.1 Client Configuration
Client for NComputing consists of NComputing machine, monitor, keyboard and mouse. Client NComputing does not require a CPU (Central Processing Unit), because the NComputing machine replaces the function but the function is not the same CPU as the CPU. NComputing machine just connect and display the user from the server
to the other display, in one time. To connect the machine to a server computer NComputing using UTP cable with RJ45 connectors. If the server computer is on and the configuration is finished, then the client only stay switched on and wait for NComputing machines connect to the server. Log in to the client using a user name that has been made in advance on the server computer.
4.2.2 Performance
NComputing is one alternative solution to save the procurement of computer networks. A standard computer to be used together and make computing simple and affordable. This will save the initial investment by simply paying a client computer coupled NComputing required procurement can save up to 50% compared to ordinary desktop models. As has been known to elevate a needed computer power of about 300 watts if the argument is a server and 3 client the required power of 1200 watts. But with NComputing model of L is 1 computer requires just 5 watts of power used so that only about 315 watts (300 watts power servers) only in other words, this can reduce power by up to 75%.
Maintenance device feels quite easy. This model can Minimizes costly hardware upgrades regularly enough to do the upgrade on the host PC. Does not require the hardware maintenance on OfficeStation, only a software upgrade on the host PC if there is a newer version of NComputing. If the operating system used is Windows then takes a fee for the license, but if the OS used is an open source like Linux, the license fee is not required. With the relatively small size of the network model did not have to use the room or spacious place, and does not cause noise and reduce the heat in the room.
So far, in terms of research for n-computing operation is not as fast as the other network model is evidenced by the length of time to open an application, even in operations that should another party takes a short time.
4.2.3 Fees Required 4.2.3.1 Cost of Procurement
Table 3. Cost of Procurement NComputing network
1 unit server (IBM system x3200 M2-36A) = IDR 9,950,000 3 units N-Computing (L300)@Rp 1.800.000 = IDR 2,600,000 1 Hub/switch D-link 8 port (DES-1008D) = IDR 180,000 4 Monitor(LCD LG 17” Wide) @1.258.000 = IDR 5,032,000
416
4 Mouse USB (Sturdy) @35.000 = IDR 140,000
4 Keyboad USB (Sturdy) @ 39.000 = IDR 156,000
3 Combo @2500 x 6 = IDR 15,000
RJ45 @1.000/meter x 10 = IDR 10,000
UTP @ 3.500/meter x 12 = IDR 42,000
Windows Server 2003 (5 Client) = IDR 6,313,500
Crimping Tools = IDR 125,000
LAN Tester = IDR 25,000
Screwdriver Plus = IDR 16,000
Installation costs servers = IDR 145,000
Network Installation Costs = IDR 50,000
Amount = IDR 24,799,500
For networks that use NComputing costs for the purchase of the client computer is replaced with the purchase NComputing. NComputing and purchase of IDR 1.8 million each unit. In the NComputing network does not require client installation costs because the client took the Operating System of the Server so it does not need installing the operating system on the client because the task of the NComputing just to display the user settings on the server. So the cost of installation only for a server that is IDR 145,000. So that the total initial procurement of IDR 24.7995 million
4.2.3.2 Maintenance costs
Table 4.Maintenance costs LTSP network Server maintenance = IDR 145,000 Network
maintenance
= IDR 50,000 amount = IDR 195,000
On a network that uses NComputing takes care costs only cost to reinstall the server and network maintenance costs because the network does not use a computer NComputing client so it does not require maintenance costs to reinstall the Client. And it can save maintenance costs and also save time in reinstall the entire network.
4.3 Implementation of Computer Network Userful 4.3.1 Server Configuration
To build this network, the first step needed is to add the VGA and USB card this function expands the number of
stations that can be connected to one PC. Furthermore, connects the input and output devices to adjust the monitor and keyboard and then plug all video and USB cables to the back. computers can add a USB-powered hub to each station to provide user access to USB devices.
The next stage of software userfuldinstal:
1) First we need autodetect VGA card available 2) Then we remove some configuration options that
will not be used
3) Next will add ServerFlags used to set global options.
4) In the section of our module is disabled XFree86-DGA extension.
5) First we list all the available input devices that are currently connected to our PC.
6) The graphics card is the most difficult to configure. We need to determine whether the card is built-in or pci / pci-x so that each card is correctly initialized.
7) The “Screen” is the part where we each graphics card configured to be attached to the monitor. 8) The “ServerLayout” completes the configuration
section for each graphics card and input devices. 9) Configure link keyboard and mouse to the
monitor by pressing a simple button.
4.3.2 Client Configuration
Client on userful not require any configuration because the client userful only consists of a monitor, keyboard and mouse so that the client configuration is set by the server.
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4.3.3 Performance
Userful provide any savings in all aspects. Ranging from procurement, maintenance and security.Userful terms of procurement cost savings up to 80% of hardware purchase is evidenced by a device that takes is a server with multiple VGA and USB card to increase the number of the station without having to buy a PC for the client. Similarly, treatment, Userful is a network model based on open source, so no need for licensing fees for hardware only requires a monitor, keyboard and mouse as its clients
with care so it can save up to 70%. Power used is not so large that the savings will be maximum. For performance userful support the application usage. Not much different when using a regular network model. For security, such as a thin client system, the data is safely stored on the server, with no elements that can interfere.
4.3.4 Fees Required
4.3.4.1 Cost of ProcurementUserful network
Table 5. Cost of Procurement LTSP network
1 unit server (IBM system x3200 M2-36A) = IDR 9,950,000 4 units Monitor(LCD LG 17” Wide) @1.258.000 = IDR 5,032,000 4 units Mouse USB (Sturdy) @35.000 = IDR 140,000 4 units Keyboad USB (Sturdy) @ 39.000 = IDR 156,000
3 Combo @2500 x 6 = IDR 15,000
1 Hub/switch D-link 8 port (DES-1008D) = IDR 180,000
RJ45 @1.000 x 10 = IDR 10,000
UTP @3.500 x 10 = IDR 35,000
Crimping Tools = IDR 125,000
LAN Tester = IDR 25,000
Screwdriver Plus = IDR 16,000
Installation costs servers = IDR 145,000
Network Installation Costs = IDR 50,000
Amount = IDR 15,879,000 At userful network does not require the client computer
just needs an additional VGA card.
4.3.4.2 Maintenance Costs
Table 6.Maintenance costs LTSP network Server maintenance = IDR 145,000 Network maintenance = IDR 50,000 amount = IDR 195,000
For the cost of care only for the cost of reinstalling the server and network maintenance only. It also saves time and effort to perform network improvements
5. Conclusions
From the research that has been done, from 4 kinds of models that we use (regular LAN network, n-computing, and userful LTSP), it can be concluded that:
1) The network model LTSP (Linux Terminal Server Project), this network model requires more skills in the configuration, but for technicians often handle network configuration is not so difficult. In the case of any procurement savings model of this network because it does not require a hard drive on the client computer, the network model can also be run on a computer with the specs are still low. Its performance in terms of opening applications, the network model is also not inferior to standard network model.
418 2) The computer network n-computing, network
model has weaknesses in its performance, as the network model is sometimes experienced a fair amount of time loading process, and display on the client NComputing less satisfactory. Substantial costs in procurement but the cost of care and the cost of the electricity expenditure, NComputing network model more efficient. NComputing configuration was not so complicated.
3) Model userful network, this network model also save in terms of cost because the client does not need the CPU itself but only requires additional VGA on the server computer.
References
[1] Anonim, “Virtualisasi Desktop KomputerTerbesar di Dunia” Jakarta: Info Linux, 2009.
[2] Houser, John, “Open Source Public Workstation in Libraries”. Chapter 2 : Open Source Operating Systems in Libraries Research in Context, Library Technology Report, 2009.
[3] Houser, John, “Open Source Public Workstation in Libraries”. Chapter 4 : An Introduction to the Case Studies, Library Technology Report, 2009.
[4] Houser, John, “Open Source Public Workstation in Libraries”, Chapter 6 : Architectural Comparison, Library Technology Report, 2009.
[5] Pham Hoang and Jr. Hoang Pham, "improving energy and power efficiency using ncomputing and approaches for predicting reability of complex computing system",IJAC International Journal of Automation and Computing, 2010.
[6] Userful Corporation, “Userful Is the Green Solution: Reduce CO2 Emissions and Electronic Waste,” http://www2.userful.com/green-pcs (accessed Oct, 2015)
[7] (2015), userful.com [online], Available :http://userful.com/company/linux-desktop-irtualization [8] (2015), ltsp.org [online], Available : http://ltsp.org.
Author Profile
AbadiNugroho-Completed the Bachelor’s degree in Department of
Informatics at
UniversitasMuhammadiyahSurakarta. Him current research interests are in the areas of communication and
networking, and Information
