Server Virtualization with Microsoft Hyper V

Virtualization may be defined as creating virtual version of something. In IT industry in case of server virtualization, it is all about creating multiple virtual machines (guest) on a single hardware server (host). Originated in 1960s, it involves logical distribution of hardware resources among different guests. With the passage of time it gained popularity because of following benefits: -

·         Cost: - When one is planning to erect a datacenter, major investment goes into physical hardware. Apart from that, to run a data center, one needs space, electricity, false flooring, air conditioning, facilities to repel rodents etc: If one opts for virtualization technology one is saving a lot on above mentioned cost. Lesser hardware requirement means less space, less electricity consumption and less cooling facilities. And this boils down to less investment.

·         Back Up: - The compulsory item of datacenter is back up solution. Taking back up of virtualized server and its redeployment is less time consuming then that of taking back up of hardware server and redeploying it.  Firing up a snapshot is faster than rebooting a typical hardware server.

·         Testing Environment: - If one has testing environment then virtualization is the best option. One can create virtual machines (in accordance with the licensing policy of software) and can use it for testing purpose. If a terrible mistake happens and machine crashes new VM can be created in jiffy.

·             Virtualized servers are the best option when high availability is required.

Hyper-V (a Microsoft product) and formerly known as Windows Server Virtualization, is a native hypervisor. It comes as a separate SKU and it comes bundled with Window server 2012R2.

Windows server 2012R2 comes in four editions

·         Foundation – For up to 15 users and no virtual machine (VM) can be created.

·         Essentials – For up to 25 users and only one virtual machine can be created

·         Standard- for unlimited users and only two virtual machines can be created

·         Datacenter – For unlimited users and unlimited virtual machines can be created.

 (Blog by Pushkar Nath)