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.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer instructions are provided for enhancing software catalog manageability, providing abstract software configuration, and desired state management. A first mechanism is provided for enhancing software catalog manageability. The first mechanism includes a software model that separates metadata of software from actual binaries of the software. A second mechanism is provided for abstracting 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. The template is consumed by user defined workflows to create actual software resources during deployment. A third mechanism is provided for desired state management and patch compliance assessments.