6 Ways Your Business Can Use Virtualization

Has your business implemented virtualization in any form? Chances are there is at least one part of your business that could benefit from a virtualization shift, whether it’s your hardware infrastructure, software infrastructure, or even desktop infrastructure. Today, we want to help you determine what the best virtualization options are for your business so you can take your digital transformation efforts to the next level.

But First, What is Virtualization?

Your typical server infrastructure depends on one operating system installed on the server in question, with the software running on said server depending on that OS for compatibility. When you virtualize a resource, it’s abstracted, which is a fancy word for removing that resource from the hardware it’s hosted on. Virtualization pulls this off by emulating a copy that’s hosted in a layer of software called the hypervisor. In this way, you take one server and allow it to perform different tasks that are no longer reliant on the hardware itself.

In simple English, you are able to run multiple, independent virtual devices on one physical device.

Why Is Virtualization Beneficial for Businesses?

Before this technology was brought into the mainstream, hardware was intimately linked to a system’s software capabilities. For example, it might have been difficult to configure software, or it would have been challenging to move software from one server to the next. Virtualization simplifies this process and allows businesses to scale easily without suffering performance drops.

Your Virtualization Options

With so many options available for virtualization, you can build a custom strategy based around your company’s specific needs. Here are some of them:

• Server Virtualization - A virtual server is more flexible than a physical one, as it’s easier for the user to make adjustments to resources. A virtual server’s workload can change and grow alongside the business, allowing for easier scaling.
• Desktop Virtualization - A desktop can be virtualized and simulated within a hosted server, allowing companies to bypass the hardware requirements. In other words, a workstation can be hosted in a virtual environment, where it can be accessed by any connected device; this is the technology that powers thin units.
• Network Virtualization - When you use a virtual network, you’re essentially splitting your network into smaller pieces that are more easily managed and adjusted. This means you can assign each piece to a channel and assign resources as needed—great for the more resource-intensive parts of your network.
• Storage Virtualization - When you virtualize data storage, it makes it easier to manage and access on approved devices. You can basically make one big conglomerate of physical storage solutions to create one single centralized location for your data.
• Application Virtualization - Thanks to application virtualization, you can run an application without needing to depend on the operating system. This lets you use it on essentially any device.
• Data Virtualization - Data visualization means abstracting the location, format, and performance of a data set to allow for more broad access.

How will your business use virtualization? Regardless of how you plan to use it, Suffolk Computer Consultants can help. Find out more by calling us at 631-905-9617.