Virtualization has been exploding over the past few years. Virtualization is the process of creating virtual machines (VMs) on a single server, rather than one instance per server. Why is everyone jumping on the bandwagon? There are quite a few benefits!

Partitioning

Without virtualization, most servers don’t maximize their utilization, frequently using 5-15% of the server’s capabilities. Suppose you have a full-blown architecture with multiple instances. This would require a server for each instance. The cost for that would be quite large. Virtualization would allow you to buy one powerful server and then have multiple instances placed on it. This effectively reduces the amount of hardware you need, the total cost, and increases the utilization of your hardware.

Encapsulation

Because of the nature of virtual machines, you can save the entire state of a virtual machine to files. Create a clean slate VM for each of your new employees. Save a particular state so you can always revert in case you encounter an irreversible situation. Not only that, but the files can easily be moved and copied at any time.

Hardware Independence

Virtualization means that you are now independent of your choice of hardware. An Ethernet port break on your server? Copy and paste the virtual machine to another server, and then swap out the servers; simple and hassle-free. This can save you tons of time and money with this process.

There are plenty more reasons why virtualization is the future. Whether it be partitioning, encapsulation, hardware independence, or others, the future is here. If you need help virtualizing your environment, let us know. We’d love to help!