This paper describes the Dell Reference Architecture, a blueprint or a starting configuration, for Microsoft® Exchange Server 2007 in a virtualized server environment and provides guidelines for designing and sizing the storage for the same using Dell EqualLogic PS Series storage systems. It also offers the latest best practice recommendations and other considerations along the way. The approach taken is to design a storage layout that meets the following goals:

• Optimal performance - User response times are acceptable and there is no buildup of mail queues even during peak periods.
• Efficient backup and rapid recovery - Backups complete within the allotted window, with an acceptable impact on the production environment. Local recovery meets the service level agreement (SLA) requirement.
• Simplicity of design - Configuration is based on a building block approach so that it can be easily scaled up or down.