What is Hypervisor?

Hypervisor is a Windows server virtualization system. Because of this, it leaves a smaller footprint on systems.

What is Virtualization?

In order to fully understand Hypervisor, one must first comprehend virtualization.

Virtualization simply means allowing a single machine to function as multiple machines that use resources at the same time, while not creating any technical problems.

Hypervisor is divided into two classifications.

• *Type 1: This type is also referred to as Native or Bare-Metal. This type runs “directly on the host's hardware as a hardware control and guest operating system monitor. “

• *Type 2: Commonly referred to as Hosted or Embedded Hypervisors, these applications “run with a conventional operating system environment.” Because the hypervisor layer is a separate software layer, guest operating systems run at the third level above the hardware.

Following is more about the benefits of this virtualization system.

Benefits of Hypervisor (**)

Server Consolidation: With downloadable enhancements and a graphical front end, it is easy to consolidate servers with Hypervisor, even if they are operating under different platforms. This is a key benefit for organizations that may need to merge servers in different locations, for example.

Hosted Desktop Virtualization: The technology that makes up Hypervisor makes it easy to host the virtual desktop of a user on a server. The user’s desktop will be an exact replica of the one on the server. This is perfect for firms with a mobile workforce, for it allows them to access their desktop from a PC located elsewhere, or even from a slim client device.

Testing: Hypervisor has a comparatively small system overhead and it is easy to create test environments. This makes it ideal for IT experimenting and software development, for example.

Maintenance: Maintenance is easy with Hypervisor. This is because the server where the software is installed only has to take into account one specific function.
System Security: Because of the above, systems are less vulnerable to hacker attacks.

The bottom line: businesses like virtualization because it allows them to increase productivity, and save time and money. For example, the need for fewer machines means a decrease in: (i) power usage; (ii) man-power needed; (iii) and storage space required.

 

 

Sources Used:

*Source: Wikipedia's Hypervisor Entry

**Source:  TriCerat's Hypervisor Overview