Building a Foundation and Project Goals (First Steps)

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VirtualBox Setup (Slow but Simple)

Overview
Starting with VirtualBox as the VM manager for this lab setup. It might not be the fastest option, but it's free, flexible, and works well for a self-hosted environment. The flexibility to run various operating systems (Windows, Linux) makes it a good fit, especially since I’m not keen on investing time in integrating a hypervisor into dedicated hardware. VirtualBox’s ability to run on almost any machine—from a high-end gaming PC to an older laptop—makes it convenient. More cores and RAM mean more VMs can be handled. It supports both Linux and Windows hosts and offers a more user-friendly interface compared to some other options.

I already had VirtualBox installed on my machine, so the setup went smoothly. Your experience may vary if there are missing dependencies, but the installer will notify you of any.

Installation Notes

  1. Downloaded the Installer

  2. Running the Installer

    • Launched the installer. Proceeded through the installation wizard by clicking "Next," selecting the desired options, and then clicking "Install."
    • Restarted the system after installation as required.

  3. Extension Pack (Optional)

    • Downloaded the VirtualBox Extension Pack from the VirtualBox website for additional features like USB support and enhanced networking.
    • Added it through the VirtualBox interface by going to "File" > "Preferences" > "Extensions" and using the add icon.

  4. Launching VirtualBox

    • Opened VirtualBox from the start menu after installation.

Configuration Approach

VirtualBox is familiar to me from previous iterations of my lab environment, but Vagrant and Packer are new to me. Instead of using the VirtualBox GUI for VM creation, I’ll leverage the Git environment I’ve previously set up. Packer will automate the creation of machine images, ensuring consistency and repeatability, while Vagrant will manage and provision these VMs, integrating seamlessly with VirtualBox.

Notes on Goals and Scope

  1. Achieve a 100% IPv6 Domain (excluding the gateway)

    • Configure the internal lab network to use only IPv6, eliminating internal IPv4.

  2. Build a Multi-OS Environment

    • Set up various operating systems to test cross-platform interactions.

  3. Integrate Multi-Database Systems

    • Include databases like Oracle, PostgreSQL, and SQL Server to explore their management, integration, and SQL-related tasks.

  4. Establish a Comprehensive Testing Platform

    • Create a robust environment for evaluating new configurations and running experiments.

  5. Gain Practical Experience with Vagrant and Packer

    • Use Packer for automated VM image creation and Vagrant for managing and provisioning VMs.

  6. Explore Modern IT Infrastructure

    • Implement advanced setups to deepen understanding of current IT practices and trends.

  7. Showcase My Skills

    • Demonstrate my capabilities in managing and configuring complex IT environments.

  8. Make Notes Available and Assist Others

    • Document my process and findings to help others with similar setups and provide a resource for learning.

  9. Stay Fresh and Up to Date

    • Keep current with the latest versions of software and technologies to maintain and enhance my skills.

Next Steps

In the upcoming post, I’ll document the process for installing Packer and Vagrant. With Git, VirtualBox, Vagrant, and Packer all set up, the foundational work will be complete, paving the way for building and configuring each new component effectively.

Building a Foundation

Summary of Steps

Step Description
1. Setting Up Git Establish version control for managing configurations.
2. Installing VirtualBox Set up the VM manager on Windows to handle multiple virtual environments.
3. Configuring Packer Automate VM image creation using Infrastructure as Code principles.
4. Setting Up Vagrant Manage and provision virtual machines seamlessly with Vagrant.
5. Building the Lab Use Git, Packer, Vagrant and VirtualBox to create and configure lab components.

This outline captures how each step builds upon the previous ones, ensuring we have a solid base for further developments in the lab setup.

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