What is Server Virtualization Software?
Server virtualization software, also known as server hypervisors, is a type of computer program that enables multiple virtual servers (VMs) to run on a single physical server or host machine. This technology allows for better resource utilization, increased flexibility, and improved scalability.
Here's how it works:
Host Machine: The physical server or host machine runs the server virtualization software.
Virtual Server* * (VM): Each VM is an independent, self-contained environment that can run its own operating system (OS), applications, and services, just like a physical server.
- Hypervisor
: The server virtualization software acts as a hypervisor, which sits between the host machine's hardware and the VMs, managing resource allocation and ensuring each VM runs securely and independently.
Server virtualization software offers numerous benefits, including:
- Resource Consolidation
: Multiple VMs can run on a single physical server, maximizing resource utilization and reducing the need for multiple servers.
- Flexibility
: VMs can be easily created, cloned, or moved between hosts, allowing for greater flexibility in managing resources.
- Disaster Recovery
: Virtualized environments can be quickly replicated to ensure business continuity in case of a disaster.
- Security
: Each VM is isolated from others, reducing the risk of malware spread and improving overall security.
- Scalability**: Server virtualization software allows for easy scaling up or down as needed.
Some popular server virtualization software includes:
VMware vSphere
Microsoft Hyper-V
Citrix Hypervisor (formerly XenServer)
KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine)
VirtualBox
In summary, server virtualization software enables multiple VMs to run on a single physical server, offering improved resource utilization, flexibility, scalability, and security.