The other intriguing development in network virtualization is loosely referred to as a VM tap. When we typically think of network communications we're almost always thinking of the packet traffic flowing on our wired, wireless, or other type of infrastructure plumbing. But what about the communications between VMs or the communications between a VM and its virtual management layer? Vendors are learning that those communications are as important as the traditional packet-level communications. So they've devised ways to passively intercept those intra-VM communications and channel them outside the VM environment.

Imagine if those redirected intra-VM communiques could be forwarded over to a no-frills logging system, similar to a SYSLOG server, to gobble up everything thrown its way. What would you pay for that type of business and operational advantage?

Now, what if that same VM communications tap could redirect those intra-VM communiques over to your favorite network management system or device monitoring tool or network alert system and could package those redirected communications in a form those systems could easily take in. What would be the business and operational advantages for that type of extended intra-system capability?

Perhaps it could eliminate some of your workload, keep you from having to predominately work in pure reactive mode to VM crises, or perhaps it could provide a heads-up before your phone starts ringing from irate end users whose VM sessions are flaking out as a result of the latest VM transfer. Now is the time to start checking out the latest in network virtualization technologies before your infrastructure starts letting you know you're missing the latest technology boat.