bwCloud is a statewide network that provides easily accessible virtual machines. Using OpenStack virtualization software, research and teaching staff in Baden-Württemberg can set up and manage their own virtual machines. The bwCloud computing locations are in Mannheim, Freiburg, Karlsruhe and Ulm.
The virtual machines can be accessed using any common Linux distribution. You can customize the virtual server and install the software you need by yourself. You will, however, need some technical skills for set-up and administration tasks. You are also responsible for backing up and securing your own data.
The server resources provided by bwCloud are ideal for short-term tests, experiments, development tasks/ or course materials. If you need to set up a productive, stable and high-availability service with on-site support at the University of Konstanz, we recommend using the KIM virtual servers instead. If you need to perform larger amounts of scientific computing, we recommend using the state of Baden-Württemberg’s High-Perfomance-Computing services.
Please note that bwCloud services are currently being set up and tested. This means that major changes in the availability, amount and price of services may come later.
Terms and conditions
Students at the University of Konstanz may use bwCloud-basic services. This means they have access to a virtual machine comprised of 1 CPU, 1 GB RAM and 50 GB disk space. Each virtual machine expires after six months, at the latest.
University staff may use bwCloud-extended services. This means they may use up to eight different virtual servers comprising up to 16 CPUs, 16 GB RAM and 128 GB disk space.The virtual machines do not expire after six months.
Support
KIM does not provide support for setting up and using the infrastructure and applications in bwCloud. If you are unsure whether bwCloud is the best option for you, please contact us: KIM IT Support