Virtualization creates a simulated version of a computing resource, such as server, application, or desktop. Client virtualization separates the desktop from hardware, OS, and applications, allowing users to access their desktops from any device. Virtualization reduces hardware costs, simplifies software updates, and benefits the environment. It enables flexible, secure, and highly available access to critical data and applications.
Virtualization means creating a virtual or simulated version of a computing resource, rather than a real one. There are several types of virtualization technologies, including server virtualization, which consolidates an organization’s physical servers, and application virtualization, which separates applications from the operating system (OS). Client virtualization, also called desktop virtualization, leverages an organization’s client-server network architecture to reduce the number of physical desktop computers needed to house all of the company’s users.
Client virtualization simulates a user’s desktop experience, but separates the desktop from the hardware, operating system, and applications. The simulated desktop client, or virtual machine (VM), runs on a physical host server running virtualization software, the core of which is called a hypervisor. Many virtual clients can run on a host server with each client having different user properties, data, applications, and even operating systems. This allows users to seamlessly access their regular desktops from cheap low-end, thin client or shared machines.
This centralization of computing through client virtualization helps information technology (IT) departments reduce hardware costs and enables them to set up new desktops in minutes instead of days. It also simplifies the task of keeping client computers up-to-date with software updates, security patches and virus definitions, freeing up IT staff for other critical tasks. Client machine virtualization is especially useful in development or test environments. It allows system administrators and software developers to install and test applications while isolated from other machines, without putting their networks at risk.
For users, virtualization offers more flexible computing. The technology allows them to securely access their applications and data from anywhere on their local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), or anywhere they can access the Internet. Also, because IT can centrally troubleshoot most client application issues, users can benefit from less downtime.
The environment can also benefit as companies virtualize their IT infrastructure. Virtualization reduces the number of physical machines needed to host an organization’s users. This typically reduces processing inefficiencies, power consumption, hardware disposal, and space requirements, reducing impact on the environment.
Virtualization has great potential for businesses and their IT infrastructures. It enables enterprises to provide highly available, secure, and flexible access to critical data and applications, without the cost and power overhead of a traditional physical desktop environment. Large businesses typically get the most out of virtualization, but as technology advances, small and medium-sized businesses and even home computer users will likely benefit from virtualization.
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