What is virtualization and how does it work?

Virtualization refers to the process of creating virtual computers on top of a single physical computer. These virtual computers are known as virtual machines. Virtual machines use the hardware of the physical computer, but they do have their own operating systems. Each virtual machine functions as an independent computer. Virtualization allows the organizations to utilize the hardware of a single computer to create multiple virtual computers and therefore increase productivity.

Here are some important features of Virtualization:

• In the past each application required a separate server and each server required a dedicated physical computer with one operating system. However, with the help of virtualization, a single computer can have multiple VMs each with their own operating system capable of running multiple servers. Virtualizations ensure that the physical resources do not go to waste.

• Organizations can also use multiple VMs to avoid disruptions caused by the operating system crashes. On the other hand running multiple physical servers can be a bit more expensive in comparison to running multiple virtual machines.

• The process of installing hardware for each application can be a bit complicated. It is much easier to use virtual machines to run applications. You can also create automated workflows with the help of management software.

• Hypervisor is the software used to manage virtual machines. It helps to establish the connection between the hardware and the VMs. It also ensures that VMs do not interfere with each other by creating a barrier between them.

• The best part about using VMs is that they can be rolled back to a stage where they were uninfected in case they get infected. On the other hand if a physical computer gets infected then, it might not be that easy to get rid of the malware. However, if the Hypervisor is compromised then the attacker will have complete control of the VMs and the operating systems. Not only that, it will also be difficult to detect because the Hypervisor does not use the physical network to communicate with the VMs.

What are the different types of Virtualization?

Data virtualization

Data is gathered from different applications, in different formats and stored in different locations. Data virtualization allows applications to access data regardless of the format, source and location.

Network virtualization

Network virtualization allows users to manage the network from a single console. The network administrator can manage the network without using the physical components making the task of network management much easier.

Storage Virtualization

Storage virtualization allows users to manage all the storage devices on the network as a single storage device. Storage virtualization ensures efficient utilization of the available storage on the network.

CPU Virtualization

CPU virtualization divides a single CPU into multiple virtual CPUs. CPU virtualization plays a crucial role in the process of creating virtual machines.

Cloud virtualization

Virtualization is what makes cloud computing possible. Cloud service providers need to virtualize physical resources to serve their clients with a wide variety of cloud services such as IaaS, SaaS and PaaS.

Conclusion

Virtualization can be used to create multiple virtual computers on top of a single physical computer. This means you can take advantage of multiple operating systems with a single physical computer. You can increase productivity without having to spend a lot of money. Virtualization allows organizations to get more done with the limited hardware. It is a cost effective technology that prevents wastage of resources. It also helps organizations to overcome various hardware and software related issues. Virtualization can also be used to manage your data, storage and network from a single console. Virtualization is a futuristic technology that enables organizations to keep up with the growing demand.