What Is Server Virtualization and Why do Small Businesses Need It?

If you are a small business looking to get the best out of your IT infrastructure without investing millions in it, you should think about server virtualization. It reduces your IT operating costs and enhances data security for critical applications.

Keep reading to know more details about server virtualization.

Server virtualization is partitioning one physical server into multiple small virtual servers running simultaneously on different operating systems. Server virtualization reduces the amount of equipment you need to run your business and helps you optimize your use of computing resources. It should not be confused with cloud computing, as cloud computing also lets you use resources from an abstract location. Virtualizations allow multiple single resources to behave like many and cloud computing enables users to access a pool of help from a single point.

Server virtualization is done using special software called the Hypervisor. Based on the amount of isolation the virtualization provides, there are different types of server virtualization.

Full Virtualization

This type of virtualization runs multiple operating systems on a single physical server using virtual machines completely isolated from each other. The server instances will not be aware of each other.

Para-virtualization

It is similar to full virtualization, except that each OS in the server instances is aware of the other’s presence. It uses less resources than the fully virtualized servers and uses the physical resources more efficiently as they can communicate with each other.

OS-level Virtualization

The OS acts as hypervisor software and is responsible for allocating resources and managing the server instances. It uses far fewer resources, is easier to set up than the full or paravirtualization, and does not require hypervisor software. The drawback is that all the virtual servers will have to run on the same OS.

When you use a single physical server as multiple virtual servers to perform different tasks, it automatically increases the efficiency and reduces the number of servers required.

Saves money

When you virtualize your server, you can eliminate all those extra servers you’ve been renting and paying for every month. You’ll also be able to use fewer physical servers in general, reducing your electricity costs and maintenance fees over time.

Improves security and uptime

Because each virtualized server runs on its own operating system—and has its dedicated resources—it’s much harder for hackers or malicious software to take down an entire network with one attack or virus infection (as compared with traditional hosting solutions). This equates to less downtime for your customers.

Easy to Scale up

Many small businesses start out with a single physical server running their website or application, but as they grow, they may need more power than one machine can give them.

Other benefits include easier recovery from natural disasters, easier and faster migrations, unlimited storage, and improved team productivity. If you want server virtualization set up for your business, contact Managepoint Technologies. Their experience in working with various IT projects will surely give your business the right boost. Contact (877) 262-3620  or click here to make IT happen.