In the last article, we discussed What is Virtualization. In modern computing, virtualization has emerged as a transformative technology that empowers organizations to optimize resource utilization, enhance scalability, and streamline IT operations. By abstracting physical resources and creating virtual counterparts, virtualization offers a flexible and efficient way to deploy, manage, and utilize technology resources. In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the various types of virtualization listed below, each tailored to specific aspects of computing infrastructure, applications, and services.
- Hardware/Server Virtualization
- Network Virtualization
- Storage Virtualization
- Desktop Virtualization
- Application Virtualization
- OS Virtualization
Let's discuss about these different types in detail -
1. Hardware Virtualization -
It is perhaps the most common type of virtualization today. It is made possible by a Virtual Machine Manager called the hypervisor. The hypervisor creates virtual version of computers and OS so that all the hardware resources can be utilized more efficiently. It also enables users to run multiple operating systems on the same server simultaneously.
Hardware virtualization is further subdivided into below types -
i. Full Virtualization ii. Para-Virtualization
iii. Emulation Virtualization
In Full Virtualization, guest Software does not require any modifications as the underlying hardware is fully simulated.
In Para-virtualization, the hardware is not simulated and the guest software runs its isolated system.
In Emulation Virtualization, the virtual machine simulates the hardware and becomes independent of it.
2. Network Virtualization
Network virtualization combines all the physical networking equipment into a single software based resource. It is intended to optimize the network speed, flexibility and provide security. It is further divided into 2 types -
i. Internal Network - Enables a single system to function like a network
ii. External Network - Combines multiple networks or parts of networks into a virtual unit.
3. Storage Virtualization
In this type of virtualization, multiple physical storage devices are grouped together to form a cluster. It provides various advantages like better storage utilization, improved storage management, reduced downtime. There are two types of Storage Virtualization -
i. Block - Multiple storage devices are consolidated into one.
ii. File - Storage system grants access to the files that are stored on different hosts.
4. Desktop Virtualization
Desktop virtualization separates the desktop environment from the physical device. One form of Desktop Virtualization is Virtual Desktop Infrastructure(VDI) where user can manage his desktop stored remotely from any device any location.
5. Application Virtualization
Application virtualization is abstracting the application layer from the guest Operating System.
6. OS Virtualization
OS virtualization involves hosting multiple operating system on a single OS.
So by opting a most suitable type which meets all your needs you can definitely achieve high productivity, efficiency, security and cost advantages.
At vPundit, I'll primarily be focusing on VMware's Virtualization platform. In our upcoming blog posts, we will delve deeper into each type of virtualization, exploring implementation details, use cases, and emerging trends that define the ever-evolving landscape of virtualization.
Stay tuned and Thank you for reading!
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