Virtualization is the method of building multiple infrastructures on one single system.
There’s no doubt about it: businesses and facilities have a higher demand for system and network performance than ever before, and there’s no end in sight. Storage is essential, and processing speeds need to keep pace, working reliably and consistently (especially now that so much of our teamwork involves remote access and collaboration in a remote environment).
So, what do you do to meet the demand? Well, one solution is to invest in multiple servers (physical machines), requiring more hands on deck with management, maintenance, IT support and services, and overhead expenses. Also, even a single server takes up a lot of space, meaning that in order for your growth and capabilities to be scalable, you need a large amount of room.
Another option is to explore the benefits of virtualization technology. Virtualization is software that allows you to build out a virtual version of your computer system. It stacks right over your existing IT infrastructure, giving you a new virtualized environment and increased capabilities. Think of it this way: if you needed 10 departments to run your business, would it make more sense to build 10 individual buildings, or to pour one sturdy foundation and build a 10-story building on top?
Storage virtualization allows you to build each “story” that you need, one over the other within your computer system, maximizing the potential for even a single server.
How Does Virtualization Work?
The floors you build out above it are the “virtual machines,” decked out with their own individual system and applications (each “floor” in your technological highrise can look a little different, as long as it adheres to the same architectural footprint).
The connective tissue, however, between each layer of virtual machine is called a hypervisor, and it’s absolutely essential.
The hypervisor is software that allows each level to operate independently, but still tap into the same overall computing power and memory of the system it’s built on. This unlocks the full beauty and potential of the virtualization concept, letting each virtual machine stand alone while still being powered by the underlying system.
What Are the Different Types of Virtualization?
Server Virtualization
One single server, multiple operating systems (each built out as its own “virtual machine”). The major benefit here is efficiency, tightening the overall system and reducing waste (including your business’ overall carbon footprint). The technical term for this waste is “server sprawl”: think of it as packing up a room by only putting a couple things in each box rather than efficiently packing to capacity to reduce the amount of storage space you need.
Desktop Virtualization
Imagine having a perfectly organized desktop for your team, available anywhere and at any time. That’s exactly what desktop virtualization is. Your managed IT services team can set up a virtualized desktop (virtual machine) that can be deployed to the device of your choosing.
Network Virtualization
Rather than be tethered to hardware, your virtualized network can enjoy all the agility of being software-based without sacrificing any of the features and capabilities. You’re simply duplicating that network and making a virtual version.
What Are the Benefits To Virtualization?
Lower Your Expenses
Less really is more. Rather than purchasing more hardware and servers, then wasting and underutilizing those resources, virtualization allows you to leverage what you have to its full capacity. It’s all about efficiency.
Make IT Service Easier
Repairs and improvements made to the ground floor we mentioned above will reverberate through all of your virtual machines. Virtualization makes it easier to maintain, repair, and improve your systems as a whole.
Encapsulation and Duplication
Since your virtual machine is, well, virtual, it can be easily reproduced at any time. This makes it very easy to back up, save, or copy.
Increased Security
Each virtual machine is independent of the other and self-contained. That’s good news for your cybersecurity – isolating and addressing threats is much simpler than it is for a large, interconnected system.
Easy Migration
Need to duplicate a system or move to a new physical server? Migration is just a matter of reproducing a virtual machine and connecting it to the new, foundational hardware.
The takeaway?
Have more questions about virtualization and how to maximize your IT systems and efficiency? Contact us today with any questions and to discuss the right solutions for your business or organization.