When IBM launched the CP-40 in 1967, it changed the whole dynamics of computing. Though the concept of virtualisation was ringing the bells from a year before, 1967 was the time which is credited for being the cradle of virtualisation. The CP-40 was based on complete virtualisation and could run 14 system simultaneously. Fast forward to the early 2000s, VMware took virtualisation on a different level, allowing it’s user to work on a different operating system through a virtual machine. The business of today cannot ignore the power of virtualisation if they have to stay relevant.

What is Virtualisation?

Virtualisation refers to creating a virtual version of a resource. It simulates a virtual environment of a computing resource such as a server, operating system, desktop and network. Often, many virtual resources can be created from a single physical resource. It allows better efficiency and utilization of resources giving greater revenue for business with economies of scale. A virtual computer or VM works in an isolated environment with its own dedicated resources such as RAM, storage and OS. The bridge between the physical host and the VMs are controlled through a software called the hypervisor. Through hypervisor, a physical resource is partitioned into many VMs.

Components of Virtualisation:

There are basically three components of a virtualised environment:

1. Host machine– This machine forms the basis of virtualisation. The physical hardware that allows virtual machines to exist by allowing hypervisors to be installed on them. The primary purpose of the host machine is to provide the basic physical infrastructure to the VMs.
2. The guest machines– The virtual machine which is created in simulation on top of the host machine is known as the guest machine. One single host machine can run many VMs. Each VMs run separately without any interference from

… Read the rest