Virtualization

Overview

Virtualization is the process of creating a software-based (or virtual) representation of something rather than a physical one. This can apply to applications, servers, storage, and networks, and is the single most effective way to reduce IT expenses while boosting efficiency and agility for all size businesses.

History

The concept of virtualization is a construct of the mind, and as such, it has been around for quite some time. The term "virtualization" was coined in the 1960s, to refer to a method of logically dividing the system resources provided by mainframe computers between different applications. Since then, the meaning of the term has broadened.

Types of Virtualization

There are several different types of virtualization, each with its own set of benefits and challenges. These include:

Server Virtualization

Server virtualization is the masking of server resources, including the number and identity of individual physical servers, processors, and operating systems, from server users. The server administrator uses a software application to divide one physical server into multiple isolated virtual environments.

Network Virtualization

Network virtualization is a method of combining the available resources in a network by splitting up the available bandwidth into channels, each of which is independent from the others, and each of which can be assigned or reassigned to a particular server or device in real time.

Storage Virtualization

Storage virtualization is the pooling of physical storage from multiple network storage devices into what appears to be a single storage device that is managed from a central console.

Application Virtualization

Application virtualization is an umbrella term that describes software technologies that improve portability, manageability and compatibility of applications by encapsulating them from the underlying operating system on which they are executed.

Benefits of Virtualization

Virtualization can increase IT agility, flexibility, and scalability while creating significant cost savings. Greater workload mobility, increased performance and availability of resources, automated operations – they’re all benefits of virtualization that make IT simpler to manage and less costly to own and operate.

Challenges of Virtualization

Despite its many benefits, virtualization technology also presents several challenges. These include the need for additional resources and infrastructure, the complexity of managing virtual environments, and the potential for security vulnerabilities.

Future of Virtualization

Virtualization technology continues to evolve and improve, offering new opportunities for efficiency and growth. As more businesses adopt virtualization technologies, the demand for professionals with virtualization skills will continue to grow.