The Benefits Of Virtualization

Virtualization is a broad topic. It can turn one computer into multiples. The cost savings are better appreciated managing multiple machines versus managing single clients accessing virtual desktops. How virtualization works, what it can be used for, the types of virtualization, and the benefits of virtualization are some of the concepts presented.

How Virtualization Works

Virtualization is often misunderstood. It is the conception, design and manufacture of a virtual version of something such as an operating system, a server, and a storage device or network resource. The point is to alleviate physical space or servers, less energy usage and maintenance. While virtualization is part of an infrastructure the upfront cost for installation can

For one, how much space on the physical server will be needed? What information will be retained? Will this information be accessed by others? Who will be accessing the information? Will they need a security clearance for access? Who will be the system owner? Where will the virtual system reside? These are all questions that need to be considered prior to deploying a virtual system. Being the system owner means ensuring the system is working properly not to mention receiving the timely updates and patches to secure the network as well as acknowledging others access that need that access. Likely the information stored on a virtual server is for unofficial use only (FOUO), however it can be classified privy to personnel on a need to know basis. If the information happens to be classified, certain access will have to be granted for those

Storage Virtualization: This is potentially the reduction in fewer servers and duplicated data which is the actual consolidation of data in a central location to allow users to access the information.

The Benefits of Virtualization It would greatly depend on the nature of work, Information Technology architecture, and the Information Technology budget.

Consolidate Servers This will allow the increase of server infrastructure without the need to purchase additional pieces of hardware. This enables resources to be more efficient.

Conserve Energy There may be a reduction in energy bill. With some, particularly Army installations are following multiple energy-related Federal mandates including Executive Order 13514, the Energy Policy Act of 2005, and the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 to obtain installations energy reduction by the year 2020. (Booth, 2013)

Improve Ease of Management A management console application can be used to upgrade, as one example, versus powering down the machine to install the hardware ensuring the changes were made then powering up again. This reduces the time needed to