Virtualization, in computing, refers to the act of creating a virtual (rather than actual) version of something, including but not limited to a virtual computer hardware platform, operating system (OS), storage device, or computer network resources.

Hardware virtualization or platform virtualization refers to the creation of a virtual machine that acts like a real computer with an operating system. Software executed on these virtual machines is separated from the underlying hardware resources. For example, a computer that is running Microsoft Windows may host a virtual machine that looks like a computer with the Ubuntu Linux operating system; Ubuntu-based software can be run on the virtual machine.

In hardware virtualization, the host machine is the actual machine on which the virtualization takes place, and the guest machine is the virtual machine. The words host and guest are used to distinguish the software that runs on the physical machine from the software that runs on the virtual machine. The software or firmware that creates a virtual machine on the host hardware is called a hypervisor or Virtual Machine Manager.

Different types of hardware virtualization include:

1. Full virtualization: Almost complete simulation of the actual hardware to allow software, which typically consists of a guest operating system, to run unmodified.
2. Partial virtualization: Some but not all of the target environment is simulated. Some guest programs, therefore, may need modifications to run in this virtual environment.
3. Paravirtualization: A hardware environment is not simulated; however, the guest programs are executed in their own isolated domains, as if they are running on a separate system. Guest programs need to be specifically modified to run in this environment.

Virtualization is firmly entrenched in the strategies of IT leaders. Like many organisations, it likely that cost savings and the containment of capex spend were the initial driving forces behind the uptake of virtualization in your business.

But other drivers are now emerging: virtualization improves business continuity and resilience, and can assist you in disaster recovery preparations. How can virtualization position your business for cloud computing? How can you harness the power of virtualization to reduce operational costs and improve automation?

Virtualization is also moving beyond the server and storage domains. Desktop virtualization is on the fast track to mainstream adoption.

If you’re looking for more efficient, cost-effective ways to reduce your data centre footprint and cost through, we can assist :

• We are conversant in all leading virtualization technologies, without being tied to any particular vendor, which means we can recommend the right blend of solutions for your business.
• Our deep domain expertise in networking, security, data centers and Microsoft technologies enables us to consider all the touch points that virtualization has within your environment, both at the desktop and server levels.
• Our expertise in data centers facilities, including power and cooling optimization, allows you to maximize the impact of your server and storage virtualization projects.
• We are ensure that all data protection, backup and recovery considerations within your virtual environment are thoroughly addressed.
• We are assist you to optimize your management processes to maximize the improvements that virtualization offers, through a thorough assessment of your IT service management capabilities.
• We are tailor our solutions to your requirements applying the skills and best practices we have gathered through deploying, implementing and supporting virtual server, storage and desktop environments for clients around the world.