Logical partition overview

Logical partitioning is the ability to make a server run as if it were two or more independent servers. When you logically partition a server, you divide server resources into subsets called logical partitions (LPARs). You can install operating system software on a client logical partition and specify the amount of processor that the client partition receives, the amount of memory the client uses, and the I/O resources that the client can use.

Processors, memory, and input/output devices are examples of resources that you can assign to logical partitions. Install the Virtual I/O Server software as the first operating system to create the first client partition and to enable additional client logical partitioning.

You can install each operating system that the PS703 or PS704 server supports in a client logical partition.

See the ServerProven website for information about supported operating-system versions and all blade server optional devices.

Logical partitions share a few system attributes, such as the system serial number, system model, and processor feature code. All other system attributes can vary from one logical partition to another.

Use the Micro-Partitioning® function to partition the PS703 or PS704 blade server into logical client partitions. Access the Micro-Partitioning function through the remote administrator console of the Integrated Virtualization Manager (IVM) or through the command line interface of Virtual I/O Server.