2 Server Virtualization Explained

Key Concepts

• Virtualization
• Hypervisor
• Virtual Machine (VM)
• Resource Allocation
• Benefits of Virtualization

Virtualization

Virtualization is the process of creating a virtual version of a resource, such as a server, storage device, or network. It allows multiple virtual environments to run on a single physical server, maximizing the use of hardware resources.

Hypervisor

A hypervisor, also known as a virtual machine monitor (VMM), is software that enables the creation and management of virtual machines. It sits between the physical hardware and the virtual machines, allocating resources such as CPU, memory, and storage to each VM.

Virtual Machine (VM)

A virtual machine is a software-based emulation of a physical computer. Each VM runs its own operating system and applications, isolated from other VMs and the underlying physical hardware. VMs can be easily created, cloned, and moved between physical servers.

Resource Allocation

Resource allocation in virtualization involves distributing physical server resources among multiple VMs. This includes CPU cores, memory, storage, and network bandwidth. Dynamic resource allocation allows for efficient use of resources, ensuring that each VM gets the necessary performance without overloading the physical server.

Benefits of Virtualization

Virtualization offers several benefits, including:

• Resource Efficiency: Multiple VMs can run on a single physical server, reducing hardware costs and energy consumption.
• Flexibility: VMs can be easily moved, cloned, or backed up, providing flexibility in managing workloads.
• Isolation: Each VM operates independently, ensuring that issues in one VM do not affect others.
• Scalability: New VMs can be quickly provisioned to handle increased workloads, and existing VMs can be scaled up or down as needed.

Examples and Analogies

Think of virtualization as a multi-tenant apartment building. Just as multiple families can live in separate apartments within the same building, multiple VMs can run on a single physical server. The building manager (hypervisor) ensures that each family (VM) has access to the necessary resources (utilities, space) without interfering with others.

Another analogy is a shared kitchen in a dormitory. Just as multiple students can use the same kitchen for cooking, multiple VMs can share the same physical server resources. The kitchen rules (hypervisor) ensure that everyone gets their fair share of the stove, refrigerator, and other appliances.