Extending virtualization technology into high-performance, cluster platforms generates exciting new possibilities. However, I/O efficiency in virtualized environments, specifically with respect to disk I/O, remains little understood and hardly tested. The objective of this research is to investigate fundamental techniques for virtual clusters that not only facilitate rigorous performance studies, but also identify places where performance is suffering and then optimize the system to lessen the impact of such bottlenecks. This research will greatly contribute to understanding virtualized I/O, identifying I/O bottlenecks and optimizing I/O, and thus facilitate the cluster systems to most effectively utilize virtualization technology. This project will also contribute to the society through promoting research and engaging under-represented groups that leads students to advancing their careers in science and engineering.
