Server Virtualisation and Its Importance to IT Infrastructure

Server virtualisation isn’t something new. For decades, technologies have been developed to help make servers more flexible, portable and efficient. In fact, many of the biggest companies in IT and tech have used virtualisation for decades, but their methods of doing it have evolved over time.

In this article, we will break down the basics of server virtualisation, how it fits with other technologies, what hardware it requires and how it can benefit your business.

The Basics of Server Virtualisation

Virtualisation is basically the process of dividing a physical computer into multiple virtual machines (VMs) – in order to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single server. Virtualisation is commonly used in cloud computing, but it’s also an effective tool that businesses can use to reduce costs and improve resource management.

With that being said, server virtualisation is most simply defined as the process of using software to create a separate, virtual version of a physical server. This makes it possible to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single physical server.

Each virtual server “instance” remains separate from its neighbours and runs independently of one another. But at the same time, it’s possible for organisations to manage all of their servers as a single networked functional unit.

Why is Server Virtualisation Important?

Virtualisation is important because it allows organisations to gain the benefits of a leaner and more efficient infrastructure. With server virtualisation tools, businesses can reduce their energy consumption and operating costs.

Server virtualisation allows for the strategic consolidation of servers, which means it’s easier for businesses to create and manage a single, more streamlined computing platform. Since each server runs independently of the others, it’s possible to shut down any one of the servers if necessary – without affecting the other servers.

In addition to these benefits, server virtualisation helps improve an organisation’s ability to reduce energy consumption and operating costs. This is because multiple servers can be run on a single physical server, which decreases the total number of servers that need to be purchased and maintained.

This results in a smaller environmental footprint, which means businesses can be more productive while staying environmentally responsible.

How Does Server Virtualisation Work?

When server virtualisation is implemented in a business, multiple virtual servers are created on a single physical server. Each virtual server is a functioning virtual copy of a physical server. This enables multiple operating systems and applications to run simultaneously on a single hardware base, making it possible to consolidate the number of physical servers needed in a server virtualisation environment.

When it comes to cloud computing, server virtualisation is used in two ways. The first way is to host virtual servers in a public cloud environment. This enables businesses to outsource functions like storage, applications and management services to third-party service providers.

What Hardware is Needed for Server Virtualisation?

There are several different factors that businesses should consider when determining the hardware that’s needed for server virtualisation. Each factor will play a unique role in determining which type of hardware a company should purchase for its virtualisation environment.

However, in general, businesses will need to select a piece of hardware that is powerful enough to run multiple operating systems as well as multiple applications simultaneously. This is typically done through the use of virtualisation software that is specifically designed to run multiple instances of operating systems and also applications on the same hardware platform.

Conclusion

Server virtualisation is an essential tool for businesses that want to gain the benefits of a more efficient, advanced and leaner infrastructure. When implemented, server virtualisation makes it possible for companies to reduce energy consumption, operating costs and capital expenses.

If you’re in need of reliable IT support services, Premier Computer Support is the right choice for you. We have the experience, know-how and skills needed to help you with everything from server monitoring and virtualisation to wireless networking implementation. Contact Premier Computer Support today for more information about how we can help you improve your IT infrastructure.