Virtualization involves introducing a layer of a virtual platform between the primary and the secondary system. In short, it aims to separate the physical system of a server and use it as a virtual machine with help from a virtualization software or hyper-visor. Virtualization dates back to the 1960s and as a result of this technology, cloud computing was established. In this case, virtualization plays the role of manipulating the hardware and software relationship, while cloud computing is what comes out of that change. There are different types of virtualization in cloud computing and they include:
Hardware virtualization
It is also known as server virtualization. It works based on the concept that within a physical hardware or server, there can be multiple hardware systems or servers which can be consolidated to one. This then consolidates those multiple servers into a virtual server. It aims to increase the ability of the hardware to process different applications without compromising speed and also upgrading the hardware.
Network virtualization
It involves the pooling of different networks into a single network server or simply creating multiple smaller networks within a network. The multiple networks are independent of each other which means you can maintain security within the network. According to Tricension cloud experts, the goal is to increase security, scalability, and flexibility in the transfer of files from one network to the other.
Desktop virtualization
It makes it possible to work remotely by accessing your PC from work, regardless of where you are. It is the most popular form of virtualization in cloud computing and offers flexibility for your staff to work remotely. Since it is centrally controlled, data is safe from hackers or access by unauthorized persons.
Storage virtualization
It involves the pooling of multiple storage resources into a single storage device. This helps to reduce downtime, increase efficiency and speed. The different storage resources pooled have different speeds and storage capacity, and once combined, they improve the load balancing and optimization.
Memory virtualization
Multiple physical memory systems from a wide range of servers are combined to form one virtualized memory system. It aims to increase the working memory by pooling together multiple physical memory systems. In instances familiar with Windows OS, a part of the hard drive storage acts as RAM.
Data virtualization
It focuses on the virtualization of databases. This makes it easy for one to locate, manipulate data and increase workloads. Due to the pooling of different databases into one, you will be able to secure data as it will be centrally located to help with that.
Software virtualization
It is sometimes referred to as operating system (OS) virtualization. A layer of OS or software is loaded on top of a native or OS running on the host machine. For example, you can have an Android OS loaded on top of a Windows OS on the same host physical server or host machine.
The different types of virtualization in cloud computing help you to manage multiple servers as one. You will, therefore, be able to keep track of multiple servers, centrally, while you increase security, efficiency, and utilize usage of the available resources.
