sl-class6
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Second Life's classless server scheme
Thus far, one of the key factors in Second Life performance has been the class of server hardware hosting the simulator. There are plenty of other non-server items that might contribute to perceived poor performance, of course, but server class versus server utilization is a pretty consistent factor. Traditionally, each class of server has a numerical designation and represents a certain basic equipment and operating system specification. In the past, some estate owners have opted not to upgrade to a newer class of hardware in order to avoid higher monthly fees. Now the server class system is coming to an end.
Linden Lab begins testing Class 6 servers
As expected, Linden Lab has begun testing 64-bit builds of Second Life server software, deploying a 64-bit version of the software intended for the new Class 6 servers onto an internal test grid. The software appears to be a straight 64-bit build of 1.24.9(98659), which should be able to function as a 64-bit binary, pending any oddnesses. Those 'oddnesses' would include implicit or explicit assumptions about the size of storage types, as well as the possibility of sending unrepresentably large values to other systems that only support 32-bit storage types. Additionally there are potentially increased disk, file and memory storage requirements. Are you a part of the most widely-known collaborative virtual environment or keeping a close eye on it? Massively's Second Life coverage keeps you in the loop.
Class 6 servers planned for Second Life
Linden Lab apparently is in the planning stages for an upcoming rollout of new, "Class 6" hardware for Second Life, representing a step up from existing Class 5 server systems. Little is actually known about the roll-out, but they appear to be part of another project to migrate the server systems from 32-bit to 64-bit. How far along in that planning they may be is uncertain. With SLS-1.24 server code still in the process of being stabilized, we wouldn't even begin to venture predictions as to when 64-bit server software or Class 6 servers will make it into testing, let alone into actual production. We assume it will be some time yet before the hardware is even purchased. Are you a part of the most widely-known collaborative virtual environment or keeping a close eye on it? Massively's Second Life coverage keeps you in the loop.
