Integration of virtual machine technologies into Hastily Formed Networks in support of humanitarian relief and disaster recovery missions

摘要

The exploration of the applicability of virtualization technologies, particularly the Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) as developed by VMware incorporated, and virtualized applications in support of humanitarian relief and disaster recovery efforts will be the focus of this research. The current Hastily Formed Network (HFN) as defined by Dr. Peter Denning at the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS), and deployed by NPS faculty and students to recent disaster areas in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Haiti has provided Ad Hoc networking for disaster relief workers, local emergency responders, and civilians. Capabilities provided have included radio communications, access to the Internet, and Internet Protocol (IP) telephones to name a few. However, no provision has been incorporated into the HFN system which provides for access to applications and data which may be of a mission critical nature. The ability to have a portable Emergency Operations Center (EOC) with virtual desktops, applications, and data, supported by the communications and power infrastructure deployed and described as a HFN should add significant capabilities to the original HFN design and value for the users of the system as they attempt to return to normal day to day operations.