Raw Device Mapping
Raw Device Mapping (RDM) is a feature in virtualization that allows virtual machines to directly interact with storage devices. Think of it like giving a virtual computer direct access to a physical storage drive, rather than using a copy or simulation. This is important in business environments where companies need their virtual systems to perform as fast as physical ones, especially for databases or other storage-heavy applications. It's similar to concepts like "passthrough storage" or "direct-attached storage" in virtualization. When recruiters see this term, it usually indicates experience with advanced virtualization setups, particularly in VMware environments.
Examples in Resumes
Implemented Raw Device Mapping solutions for critical database servers
Optimized storage performance using RDM configurations in VMware environment
Managed enterprise storage systems utilizing Raw Device Mapping for high-performance applications
Typical job title: "Virtualization Engineers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Virtualization Engineers
Online Communities
Professional Networks
Learning Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you decide between using Raw Device Mapping versus traditional virtual disks?
Expected Answer: A senior engineer should discuss factors like performance requirements, backup needs, storage migration considerations, and specific application requirements. They should mention real-world scenarios where each option works best.
Q: Explain how you would troubleshoot RDM performance issues in a production environment?
Expected Answer: Should describe a systematic approach to identifying bottlenecks, monitoring tools they would use, and how to resolve common issues without disrupting business operations.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the different modes of Raw Device Mapping and when would you use each?
Expected Answer: Should explain virtual compatibility mode versus physical compatibility mode in simple terms, and describe typical use cases for each mode.
Q: How do you set up Raw Device Mapping for a virtual machine?
Expected Answer: Should be able to outline the basic steps of configuring RDM, including storage preparation and virtual machine settings configuration.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is Raw Device Mapping and why is it used?
Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that RDM allows virtual machines to directly access physical storage devices, and mention basic benefits like improved performance for certain applications.
Q: What are the basic requirements for implementing Raw Device Mapping?
Expected Answer: Should know the fundamental components needed: compatible storage system, supported hypervisor version, and proper storage connectivity.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic virtual machine management
- Understanding of storage concepts
- Basic RDM configuration
- Virtual machine backup operations
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced storage configuration
- Performance monitoring and optimization
- Troubleshooting storage issues
- Disaster recovery planning
Senior (5+ years)
- Enterprise storage architecture
- Complex infrastructure design
- Storage capacity planning
- Team leadership and project management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with enterprise virtualization platforms
- Lack of understanding of storage concepts
- No experience with enterprise-level storage systems
- Unable to explain basic virtualization concepts
Related Terms
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