A 'normal' server consists of two primary parts, namely, the physical hardware and the operating system software. Any additional software is then added to gain functionality not provided by the operating system itself. The problem with this approach is that the operating system, and the software, is then dependant on that hardware. When the hardware fails, so does the server and software. By virtualizing the server, this link between hardware and software is broken.
This section is in progress, but you can find the benefits of virtualization listed below.
|
|
|
Applications are much more reliable when isolated from other applications.
|
|
|
Multiple Versions of the same application and data can be kept indefinitely.
|
|
|
New applications, or new versions of current applications can be tested before deployment.
|
|
|
Applications can be moved between computers if one computer fails or requires maintenance.
|
|
|
An application can be shared so anyone can use it even if it isn't installed on their computer.
|
|
|
An application can be accessed by multiple users at the same time.
|
|
|
When an application needs patching or upgrading, this only needs to be done on one computer.
|
|
|
Applications can be made available to remote workers if required.
|
|
|
Applications, their settings, and their data can all be backed up.
|
|
|
Applications are completely self contained.
|
|
|
Entire networks can be restored in hours in the event of a Fire or Flood.
|
|
|
Multiple physical servers can be virtualised and consolidated into one.
|
|
|
Fewer servers means less hardware to buy and less hardware to go wrong.
|
|
|
Reducing the number of physical servers also reduces power consumption and costs.
|
|
|
Run older applications without the usual security and stability risks.
|
Top Of Page 