Exercise 6.17 Determining the performance of a single server with relatively complete data is an easy task. However, when comparing servers from different vendors providing different data, choosing among alternatives can be diffi cult. Explore the process of fi nding and evaluating servers by answering questions about the following application.

Web server 6.17.1 [15] <6.8, 6.10> For the application listed above, identify runtime characteristics for an operational system. Choose characteristics that will support evaluation similar to that performed for Exercise 6.16.

6.17.2 [15] <6.8, 6.10> For the application listed above, fi nd a server available in the marketplace that you feel would be appropriate for running the application.
Before evaluating the server, identify reasons why it was selected.
6.17.3 [20] <6.8, 6.10> Using metrics similar to those used in Chapter 6 and Exercise 6.16, assess the server you identifi ed in Exercise 6.17.2 in comparison to the Sun Fire x4150 server evaluated in Exercise 6.16. Which would you choose? Did the results of your analysis surprise you? Specifi cally, would you choose differently?
6.17.4 [15] <6.8, 6.10> Identify a standard benchmark set that would be useful for comparing the server you identifi ed in Exercise 6.17.2 with the Sun Fire x4150.