Abstract: Methods, systems and computer products are provided for imposing pre-installation prerequisite checks on the install user to ensure a higher rate of installation success. Projected failure rates are calculated for scenarios in which a user opts to not perform one or more prerequisite activities prior to the installation. The system prompts the user to perform the prerequisites, and provides installation advices showing the projected failure rates in the event the user opts out of performing one or more prerequisites. The system may not allow the user to bypass some prerequisites designated as being mandatory to the installation.

Abstract: Methods, systems and computer products are provided for imposing pre-installation prerequisite checks on the install user to ensure a higher rate of installation success. Projected failure rates are calculated for scenarios in which a user opts to not perform one or more prerequisite activities prior to the installation. The system prompts the user to perform the prerequisites, and provides installation advices showing the projected failure rates in the event the user opts out of performing one or more prerequisites. The system may not allow the user to bypass some prerequisites designated as being mandatory to the installation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus enhancing software catalog manageability, providing abstract software configuration, and desired state management. A first mechanism enhances software catalog manageability. The first mechanism includes a software model that separates metadata of software from actual binaries of the software. A second mechanism abstracts software configuration for automation. The second mechanism includes a hierarchical software resource template structure that specifies parameters, dependencies between parameters, features, options, and parameters that cannot be predefined. A third mechanism provides for desired state management and patch compliance assessments. The third mechanism checks against a server template or software resource in a data center model against what is installed on actual machines to determine compliance.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer instructions are provided for classifying and modeling operating system images for data center management. An operating system image may be classified as a golden master image, a snapshot image, or a scripted operating system image. A software model is provided to abstract operating system and platform detail, and provide a consistent and scalable way of dealing with operating system images. An installation mechanism is provided to install images based on priorities. Software installables are attached with a software definition that may either be a software stack or a software module. A software stack comprises at least one software module.