Build for running multiple VMs

Brok

Honorable
Oct 14, 2013
4
0
10,510
I am looking to put together a new build to handle running multiple VMs in a Hyper-V lab environment. The VMs will include things like AD Domain Controllers, Exchange multi-role servers, and other enterprise server applications depending on what I'm testing. Due to the number of VMs being used, I'm looking for something that's robust from a CPU/RAM perspective, while being as future-proof as is reasonably possible.

Having investigated processor options, I've picked out the i7-4930 (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116939); it seems to have a lot of processing power, and should be ample for running the VM load I intend on throwing at it.

I am interested in suggestions on components to pick up with it (if anyone can think of a better/alternative option for a CPU, I am open to informed opinions).

Approximate Purchase Date: Immediate/next week (could put off if significant tech development known to be imminent, however).

Budget Range: $1500-2000 range; would prefer less, obviously, but the main objective is to get great performance for the VM environment without delving into silly price points.

System Usage from Most to Least Important: VM host, gaming.

Are you buying a monitor: No.

Parts to Upgrade: CPU, Motherboard, RAM, Cooler, Case, PSU, Storage. Video card is already covered, so not needed.

Do you need to buy OS: No.

Preferred Website(s) for Parts: Newegg (but will shop around pre-purchase).

Location: Milwaukee, WI, USA.

Parts Preferences: Intel preferred; I'm happy with my recent Intel purchases.

Overclocking: Yes.

SLI or Crossfire: Yes (SLI), but not immediately.

Your Monitor Resolution: 1920x1080 or 1920x1200.

Additional Comments: Case would preferably allow for easy, tidy cabling and be well laid out.

And Most Importantly, Why Are You Upgrading: I need a more powerful system to run a variety of VMs simultaneously.

Feel free to ask further questions if needed. Many thanks for all who take the time to read or respond. :)
 

USAFRet

Titan
Moderator
I do similar on an i5-3570k, and 16GB RAM.

i5 or i7, one of the key things is to have enough RAM to devote enough to each VM as needed. No less than 16GB, preferably 32 if you're going to run multiple instances of Server2008 or Server 2012.
 

Brok

Honorable
Oct 14, 2013
4
0
10,510
@TheBigTroll: what's your reason for selecting that particular mobo? I've looked at some reviews, and they're not exactly glowing. Just wondering what your thoughts were. :)

@USAFRet: I'm likely going with 32 GB. Multiple Exchange servers, domain controller or two, and a client OS to test with requires a fair whack of RAM, especially when running 2012 VMs and Exchange 2013. Lync is similarly demanding.
 

Brok

Honorable
Oct 14, 2013
4
0
10,510


Definitely not, but I do need to bear comments in mind; after all, user feedback is about all I have to go on right now, since I have no direct experience with the board myself. :)

I like the look of the case; I haven't used a Fractal before, but it looks very nice. Does anyone know it if would work with the ASUS P9X79 WS, since I am considering that alongside the Gigabyte board?