HP-UX Virtual Partitions Administrator's Guide (includes A.05.02)

Introduction
What Is vPars?
Chapter 1
18
What Is vPars?
vPars is a Virtual Partitions product that enables you to run multiple instances of HP-UX simultaneously on
one hard partition by dividing that hard partition further into virtual partitions. Each virtual partition is
assigned its own subset of hardware, runs a separate instance of HP-UX, and hosts its own set of
applications. Because each instance of HP-UX is isolated from all other instances, vPars provides application
and Operating System (OS) fault isolation. Each instance of HP-UX can have different patches and a
different kernel.
Figure 1-1 vPars Conceptual Diagram
NOTE Definitions
This document uses the following definitions when discussing virtual partitions, nPartitions,
and hard partitions:
A complex is the entire partitionable server, including both cabinets, all cells, I/O chassis,
cables, and power and utility components.
A cabinet is the Superdome hardware “box”, which contains the cells, Guardian Service
Processor (GSP), internal I/O chassis, I/O fans, cabinet fans, and power supplies. A complex has
up to two cabinets.
Virtual Partition 2
Virtual Partition N
Hardware: subset
OS: HP-UX 11i or later
Patch Level: B
Applications: app2
Hardware: subset
OS: HP-UX 11i or later
Patch Level: A
Applications: app3
...
Virtual Partition 1
Hardware: subset
OS: HP-UX 11i or later
Patch Level: A
Applications: app1, app2
One Hard Partition