TEST DRIVE THE MICROSOFT PRIVATE CLOUD instructs future network administrators how to effectively implement and maintain the Microsoft Private Cloud with a balance of conceptual expertise and hands-on skills. The book prepares readers to implement cloud computing solutions within their own network environments. TEST DRIVE THE MICROSOFT PRIVATE CLOUD begins with a conceptual foundation and by the last chapter, readers will have learned to put in place a high-availability cluster to support a Microsoft Private Cloud. Clear learning objectives, case projects, and hands-on exercises further reinforce readers' understanding of private cloud computing. Successive chapters help refine key skills readers need to implement private cloud stations using Microsoft technologies, including Windows Server 2012 R2, Hyper-V virtualization, System Center 2012 R2 Virtual Machine Manager, and System Center 2012 R2 Application Manger. Readers learn to use the Virtual Machine manager to work with library resources, to implement virtual networks, to configure storage, to create private clouds, and to deploy virtual machines. With the Application Manager, readers learn to deploy and access virtual machines in the private cloud. With PowerShell scripts, readers learn to manage the private cloud. TEST DRIVE THE MICROSOFT PRIVATE CLOUD teaches readers the private cloud computing skills they will need now and in the future.