Virtualization software allows you to run multiple operating systems on one machine at the same time. Each virtual machine has its own set of virtual hardware (e.g., RAM, CPU, NIC, etc.) upon which an operating system and applications are loaded. The operating system sees a consistent, normalized set of hardware regardless of the actual physical hardware components.
Virtual machines are encapsulated into files, making it possible to rapidly save, copy and provision a virtual machine. Full systems (fully configured applications, operating systems, BIOS and virtual hardware) can be moved, within seconds, from one physical server to another for zero-downtime maintenance and continuous workload consolidation.
Virtualization was first introduced in the 1960s to allow partitioning of large, mainframe hardware -a scarce and expensive resource. Over time, minicomputers and PCs provided a more efficient, affordable way to distribute processing power, so by the 1980s, virtualization was no longer widely employed.
Here's some news on Server Virtualization this week.
- ComputerWorld: Watchwords at SNW: Simplicity, health care, virtualization
- ZDNet: More fuel for the desktop virtualization fire
- CNET: Miracle cure for software setup?
- DevX News: Momentum for Virtualization on Linux
Virtualization meaning source
Hi Colbert, I listened with fascination to recent news that Apple will be producing computers to include not only its own great operating system, but also Windows. How soon do you see these on the market and how affordable do you see them?
Posted by: Robyn McMaster | April 20, 2006 10:17 AM | Permalink to Comment