What is server virtualization?The most common question we get when discussing virutalization with small to medium-sized businesses is "What is server virtualization and how will it help me?" Here is a brief outline of the answer to that question. What is server virtualization?Server virtualization is the masking of server resources, including the number and identity of individual physical servers, processors, and operating systems, from server users. A software application divides the one physical server into multiple isolated virtual environments.Why virtualize your servers?1. Server virtualization can be used to eliminate server sprawl, where many light application servers can be consolidated on one more robust server. It allows a more efficient use of server resources. For example, one backup and one uninteruptable power supply (UPS) serves several virtual servers. 2. Server virtualization is useful in improving both server availability and disaster recovery, as the virtual server can be reloaded on different hardware if there is a hardware crash. 3. Server virtualization aids in software testing and development. One can load a new software release onto the virtual server and confirm everything functions smoothly before releasing the upgrade to live servers. 4. Finally, server virtualization can centralize server administration - managing multiple servers through one software console.What is the best virtualization approach?VMWare has been the leading software provider for virtualization. Microsoft released their virtualization approach with Windows Server 2008. Coastway has deployed both solutions, and we have technical expertise with both solutions. Contact us for an evaluation of your virtualization requirements.Related Resources: Windows Server 2008 Virtualization with Hyper-V Microsoft Hyper-V Server 2008 R2 Resources From What is Server Virtualization to Home Page |