UNIT 2 – VIR

[Link] Understanding of Server Virtualization with its Types

Introduction: understanding of server virtualization

Server virtualization is an important technology used in modern IT infrastructure.

Server virtualization is the process of partitioning a physical server into multiple virtual
servers using specialized software. Each virtual server operates independently, running its
own operating system and applications. This is achieved through a hypervisor, which
manages the virtualized environments.

1. Working of Server Virtualization

In server virtualization, the physical server provides hardware resources such as CPU, RAM,
storage, and network. A hypervisor is placed between the physical hardware and the virtual
servers.

The hypervisor divides and allocates the server resources to different virtual servers. Each
virtual server behaves like a separate real server and runs its own operating system and
applications.

Thus, instead of buying many physical servers, an organization can use one powerful server
and run many virtual servers on it. This improves resource utilization, reduces hardware cost,
and makes server management easier.

2. Types of Server Virtualization

The main types of server virtualization given in the notes are:

1. Full Virtualization -(as in unit 1)

2. Para-Virtualization - (as in unit 1)
3. Kernel-level Virtualization
4. OS-level Virtualization

[Link]-level Virtualization
 Kernel-level virtualization is a type of server virtualization where multiple virtual
machines (VMs) run on a single physical host, sharing the same kernel as the host
operating system (OS).
Unlike traditional virtualization, where a separate hypervisor manages virtual machines,
kernel-level virtualization uses a hypervisor integrated with the kernel to create and
manage virtual machines more efficiently.

How Kernel-Level Virtualization Works:

The host OS runs a special virtualization module (such as KVM – Kernel based Virtual
Machine in Linux).
Guest operating systems (VMs) run as separate processes on the host.
Instead of full hardware emulation, the VMs share the kernel’s system calls and
resources, improving performance

Features

1. Virtualization support is integrated into the OS kernel.

2. Guest operating systems run as separate processes.
3. It reduces full hardware emulation.
4. It improves performance and efficiency.

Example :KVM in Linux

Use :Kernel-level virtualization is commonly used in Linux servers and cloud computing
environments.
[Link]-level virtualization

OS-level virtualization is a type of server virtualization where multiple isolated user-space

instances, called containers, run on a single host operating system (OS) kernel.

It uses the same host operating system kernel to create isolated containers. All containers
share the host OS kernel, making it lightweight and efficient.

working: One operating system kernel is shared by many isolated containers, so applications
run separately without needing separate full operating systems.

Features

1. Multiple containers run on one host OS.

2. All containers share the same OS kernel.
3. It is lightweight compared to full virtual machines.
4. It starts faster and uses fewer resources.
5. It provides isolation between applications.

Example :Docker ,LXC Containers

Use: OS-level virtualization is useful for lightweight application deployment, microservices,

and cloud-native applications.

3. Advantages of Server Virtualization

Independent restart: Each virtual server can be restarted without affecting other servers.
Low cost: One physical server can be divided into many virtual servers, so hardware cost
is reduced.
Disaster recovery: Data can be easily moved, backed up, and restored quickly.
Fast deployment: Virtual servers can be created and used very quickly.
Security: Sensitive data can be safely stored in data centers with better protection.
Conclusion

Server virtualization means dividing one physical server into many virtual servers using a
hypervisor.
Each virtual server works independently with its own operating system and applications.
It improves resource usage, reduces cost, and makes management easier.
It also supports backup and disaster recovery.

[Link] Desktop Virtualization with its Types

[Link] to Desktop Virtualization

Desktop virtualization is a technology that allows users to access a desktop environment

like Windows or Linux from a central server instead of running it directly on their
personal computer.
The desktop, applications, and data are stored and run on a remote server, but the user
interacts with it as if it is running on their own device.
It can be accessed from any device with an internet connection, such as a laptop, mobile
phone, tablet etc, providing flexibility, scalability, and better security.

2. Working of Desktop Virtualization

In a traditional desktop setup, the operating system, files, and applications are stored directly
on the user’s physical computer.

But in a virtualized desktop setup, the desktop is stored and runs on a remote server in a
data center or cloud. The user accesses it through the internet or a network.

When the user wants to access the desktop, a request is sent to the data center. The
connection broker checks and authenticates the user, then connects the user to the assigned
virtual desktop.

The virtual desktop runs on the host server, and only the desktop screen is displayed on the
user’s device. The user can access it from a desktop, laptop, tablet, mobile, or thin client.
3. Types of Desktop Virtualization

The main types of desktop virtualization are:

1. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

2. Remote Desktop Services (RDS)

3. Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS)

1. Virtual Desktop Infrastructure — VDI

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI) is a technology that hosts desktop operating systems,
such as Windows or Linux, on virtual machines in a data center or cloud.

With VDI, users can access these virtual desktops remotely from different devices. The
computing is done on powerful centralized servers rather than on the users’ local devices.

How VDI works

In VDI, each user gets a virtual machine that runs a desktop operating system. The user logs in
from a thin client, laptop, tablet, or smartphone and accesses the virtual desktop hosted on a
remote server.

The operating system, applications, and files are all running on a virtual machine located in
the company’s data center or cloud. The user interacts with this virtual desktop just like a
physical computer.

Benefits of VDI

1. Cost savings
VDI reduces the need for powerful local computers because the computing is done
remotely.
2. Security
Sensitive data is not stored on individual devices. It remains in the data center, protected
by firewalls and other security measures.
 3. Remote work
Employees can work from anywhere using any device that supports VDI software.
4. Centralized backup
Since everything is stored centrally, backups and disaster recovery become easier.

Real-world example

Citrix provides VDI services like Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops. Employees can log in from
anywhere such as office, home, or café and use their work applications and files. They do not
need a powerful computer because everything runs on the cloud server.

2. Remote Desktop Services — RDS

Remote Desktop Services (RDS) is a Microsoft technology that allows users to access a
desktop environment or specific applications hosted on a remote server.

Unlike VDI, which provides each user with a full virtual desktop, RDS allows multiple users to
access a shared environment, usually a Windows Server, where they can run applications or
get a full desktop experience.

How RDS works

In RDS, many users connect to the same server. Each user gets an individual session, but the
server environment is shared. This makes RDS more cost-effective than giving each user a
separate virtual machine.
Main components of RDS

1. Remote Desktop Session Host — RDSH

It allows many users to connect to one shared server and use their own desktop sessions and
applications.

2. Remote Desktop Virtualization Host — RDVH

It helps in providing virtual desktops by running virtual machines on a server and managing
VDI environments.

3. Remote Desktop Gateway — RD Gateway

It allows users to securely connect to RDS over the internet using encrypted connections
from outside networks like home or public Wi-Fi.

4. Remote Desktop Web Access — RD Web Access

It lets users access remote desktops or applications through a web browser without installing
any extra software.

5. Remote Desktop Connection Broker

It manages user connections and reconnects users to their previous session or directs them
to the correct server.

6. Remote Desktop Licensing

It ensures users are legally allowed to use RDS by providing licenses (CAL) for each user or
device connecting to the server.

Benefits of RDS

1. Cost-effective: Many users share one server, so it is cheaper than giving each user a
separate virtual machine.
2. Simplicity: RDS is easier to set up and manage because administrators handle one or few
servers instead of many VMs.
3. Flexibility: Users can access desktops or applications from any device with an internet
connection.
4. Security: Data is stored on central servers, so there is less risk of data loss or theft from
user devices.

3. Desktop-as-a-Service — DaaS

Desktop-as-a-Service (DaaS) is a cloud-based desktop virtualization service where the

complete desktop infrastructure, including virtual desktops, applications, and storage, is
hosted in the cloud by a third-party provider.
This model is similar to VDI, but in DaaS, the infrastructure is managed by a service provider
instead of the organization’s in-house IT team.

How DaaS works

In DaaS, the organization does not need to maintain its own data center for virtual desktops.
A cloud provider ,hosts the desktops, applications, and storage. Users connect to their
desktops through the internet.

Benefits of DaaS

1. It is cloud-based.
2. It is managed by a third-party provider.
3. It reduces the need for in-house infrastructure.
4. Users can access desktops from any endpoint device.
5. It is flexible and scalable.

4. Benefits of Desktop Virtualization

Better security and control: Data is stored safely in a central system, which reduces data
leaks.
Easy maintenance: Updates and software can be managed easily from one place.
Remote work: Users can access desktops and files from anywhere using the internet.
Resource management: Resources are shared and used efficiently from a data center.
Reduced cost: It saves money on hardware, software, power, and maintenance.
Increased productivity: Employees can work from any device at any time.
Improved flexibility: Administrators can manage and control all desktops easily from one
system.

5. Conclusion
Desktop virtualization allows users to access a desktop environment from a central server or
cloud instead of running everything on their own physical computer. It improves flexibility,
security, scalability, remote work support, and cost efficiency.

The main types of desktop virtualization are VDI, RDS, and DaaS. VDI gives users individual
virtual desktops, RDS allows multiple users to share a remote server environment, and DaaS
provides cloud-hosted virtual desktops managed by a third-party provider.

Short exam ending

Thus, desktop virtualization helps organizations provide secure, flexible, and centrally
managed desktop access to users from any device and any location.

Security improvements - refer upc ques

1. Centralized data storage

Sensitive data is stored in the data center instead of user devices. This reduces the risk
of data loss or theft.
2. Better security control
Since desktops are centrally managed, the organization can control access, permissions,
and security policies easily.
3. Prevents data leakage
Users can be restricted from saving or copying data to outside devices. This helps
protect confidential company information.
4. Secure remote access
Users can access their desktop from anywhere, but the desktop and data remain
protected inside the central server.
5. Easy backup and recovery
Virtual desktops can be backed up and restored easily in case of hardware failure or
disaster.

[Link] the Types of Virtual Machines

Introduction

A Virtual Machine (VM) is a virtualized instance of a computer. It can perform almost all
functions of a real computer, such as running operating systems and applications.

Virtual machines run on a physical machine with the help of a hypervisor. The hypervisor
takes the physical machine’s resources like CPU, memory, storage, and network, and shares
them among multiple virtual machines.

1. Types of Virtual Machines

There are two main types of virtual machines:

1. System Virtual Machines

2. Process Virtual Machines

System Virtual Machines:

System Virtual Machine is a type of virtual machine that completely virtualizes a physical
computer. It allows a full operating system to run inside the virtual machine. The hardware
resources of the host machine are shared using hypervisors among multiple virtual machines,
but each VM remains separate and works independently.

Example

VMware ESXi ,Microsoft Hyper-V ,Oracle VirtualBox

Advantages of System Virtual Machines

1. They allow multiple operating systems to run on a single physical machine.

2. They provide a simulated hardware environment.
3. They support high availability, maintenance, and disaster recovery.
4. They allow developers to work on different operating systems without changing the main
system.

Disadvantages of System Virtual Machines

1. They are less efficient than actual physical machines.

2. Performance may vary when many VMs run on the same host.
3. The guest operating system may need separate malware protection.
4. It may increase software and security costs.

Process Virtual Machines

 A Process Virtual Machine is also called an Application Virtual Machine or Managed
Runtime Environment.
It runs as a normal application inside the host operating system. It supports only a single
process or application.
It starts when the process begins and is destroyed when the process ends.
The main purpose of a process virtual machine is to provide a platform-independent
programming environment. This means the same program can run on different systems
without changes.

Example

Java Virtual Machine (JVM)

.NET Common Language Runtime (CLR)

Parrot Virtual Machine

Features of Process Virtual Machines

1. They run a single application or process.

2. They provide platform independence.
3. They are implemented using interpreters.
4. They provide high-level abstraction.
5. They help programmers focus on the algorithm instead of system-level details.

Working of Virtual Machine

A virtual machine works by using a hypervisor between the physical computer and the
virtual machines.
When a VM is started, the hypervisor creates virtual devices like virtual CPU, virtual
memory, virtual hard disk, and virtual network card.
Then the hypervisor gives CPU, memory, storage, and network resources to the VM based
on its need.
The guest operating system runs inside the VM and uses these virtual resources as if it is
running on a real physical computer.

Conclusion
Thus, virtual machines are mainly classified into System Virtual Machines and Process Virtual
Machines. System VMs virtualize an entire computer and allow multiple operating systems to
run on one physical host. Process VMs run a single application and provide a platform-
independent environment for program execution.

4. Uses of Virtual Server Consolidation

Definition

Virtual server consolidation is the process of combining multiple physical servers into a
single logical server using virtualization technology.

In simple words, instead of using many separate physical servers, an organization can run
many virtual servers on one powerful physical server.

This consolidation offers numerous benefits for organizations, including:

1. Increased Resource Utilization

Virtual server consolidation helps to use server resources more efficiently. Many physical
servers are often underused. By combining them into one physical machine, CPU, memory,
storage, and network resources can be used properly.

It also reduces power consumption because fewer physical servers are used. This reduces
electricity usage and environmental impact.

2. Enhanced Flexibility and Scalability

Virtual servers can be created, modified, or deleted quickly. This helps in rapid application
deployment and scaling.

Resources like CPU, memory, and storage can be increased or decreased automatically
based on how much an application needs. This improves performance and prevents
slowdowns.
Virtual servers can be easily copied and saved, so if something goes wrong, they can be
quickly restored. This helps in disaster recovery and keeps the system running without
stopping.

3. Reduced Hardware Costs

By consolidating many servers into fewer physical machines, the organization needs fewer
physical servers. This reduces hardware purchase cost.

It also reduces maintenance cost because there are fewer machines to manage, patch, and
upgrade.
4. Improved Data Center Management

Virtualization simplifies data center infrastructure. It makes the system easier to manage and
maintain.

Virtual servers can be managed centrally, so the need for many administrators is reduced. It
also improves security by isolating applications and preventing unauthorized access.

5. Enhanced Application Performance

Virtualization helps in giving the right amount of CPU, memory, and storage to each
application so that they work properly and efficiently. It also helps in load balancing by
spreading traffic across multiple virtual servers, which prevents overload and improves
performance.

Specific Use Cases

1. Cloud Computing

Virtualization is a main component of cloud computing. It helps deliver on-demand

computing resources over the internet.

2. High-Performance Computing

Virtualization can be used to create clusters of virtual servers for high-performance tasks
such as scientific simulations and data analysis.

3. Web Hosting

Web hosting providers use virtualization to host multiple websites on a single physical server.

4. Enterprise Applications

Organizations use virtualization to consolidate enterprise applications, improve efficiency,

and reduce costs.

5. Selecting a Server Virtualization Platform

Definition

Selecting a server virtualization platform means choosing the best virtualization software or
platform for an organization’s needs.

Server virtualization is an important part of modern IT infrastructure. It helps organizations

improve resource utilization, flexibility, disaster recovery, and cost savings.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Platform Compatibility and Requirements

The virtualization platform should work with existing hardware like CPU, memory, and storage.
It should also support required operating systems and applications.

2. Performance and Scalability

The platform should allocate and manage CPU, memory, storage, and network resources
efficiently across virtual machines.

It should also support future growth. When workload increases, the platform should handle it
without major performance problems.

Performance should be checked using metrics such as CPU utilization, memory usage, and I/O
latency.

3. Management and Administration

The platform should be easy to use. It should provide a user-friendly interface for creating,
managing, and monitoring virtual machines.

It should support automation for tasks like VM provisioning, configuration, and patching.

It should also allow centralized control and automatic management tasks.

4. High Availability and Disaster Recovery

The platform should support high availability features like clustering and live migration.
These features help the system continue working even if hardware failure occurs.

It should also support backup and recovery plans to protect the virtualized environment.

5. Cost and Licensing

The cost of software, hardware, and licenses should be considered. The platform should give
good value over time.

6. Security and Compliance

The platform should provide strong security features such as role-based access control,
encryption, and intrusion detection.

It should also meet industry compliance requirements such as HIPAA, PCI DSS, or GDPR if
needed.

Short Conclusion

Thus, virtual server consolidation helps organizations reduce hardware cost, improve
resource usage, simplify management, and improve disaster recovery. While selecting a
server virtualization platform, factors like compatibility, performance, scalability,
management, cost, security, and disaster recovery must be considered.

6. “Explain how virtual machine/server virtualization would help this business

manage its IT resources more efficiently”, write from Business Cases for Server
Virtualization.

Server virtualization helps a business manage its IT resources more efficiently by allowing
multiple virtual machines to run on a single physical server. This improves resource
utilization, reduces cost, and makes IT management easier.

1. Cost Savings

One of the main benefits of server virtualization is cost savings. By consolidating multiple
physical servers into one physical server with many virtual machines, the business can
reduce hardware cost, power consumption, cooling cost, and data center space.

2. Resource Optimization

Server virtualization allows efficient use of CPU, memory, storage, and network resources.
These resources can be dynamically allocated to virtual machines based on their needs. This
reduces underutilization and avoids over-provisioning.

3. Scalability and Flexibility

Virtual machines can be created, provisioned, and managed easily. When business demand
increases, new virtual machines can be added quickly. When demand reduces, resources can
be scaled down. This makes the IT infrastructure flexible.

4. Improved Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity

Virtualization provides features such as snapshots, replication, backup, and migration. These
features help the business recover virtual machines quickly during failures and continue its
operations with less downtime.

5. Simplified Management

Server virtualization provides centralized management tools for creating, monitoring, and
managing virtual machines. This reduces management complexity and improves operational
efficiency.

6. Testing and Development

Virtualization provides an isolated environment for testing and development. Developers can
quickly create and clone virtual machines to test different configurations without affecting
the main production system.

7. Green IT and Sustainability

Server virtualization reduces the number of physical servers. This reduces power
consumption and energy usage, supporting green IT and sustainability.

Conclusion

Thus, server virtualization helps a business manage IT resources efficiently by reducing cost,
optimizing resources, improving scalability, simplifying management, supporting disaster
recovery, and reducing energy usage.

Yes, we can answer both from what we already studied.

For Question 1, use the topic Desktop Virtualization benefits / Better security and control /
Ease of maintenance.
For Question 2, use the topic Hypervisor / Virtual Machine Monitor from VM basics.

1. How would desktop virtualization improve

the security and manageability of the
organization’s desktops?
Answer
Desktop virtualization improves the security and manageability of an organization’s desktops
by storing and running the desktop environment on a central server instead of individual user
computers.

In desktop virtualization, the operating system, applications, files, and user data are stored on
a remote server or data center. The user only accesses the desktop through a network using a
laptop, desktop, tablet, or thin client.

Security improvements

1. Centralized data storage

Sensitive data is stored in the data center instead of user devices. This reduces the risk of
data loss or theft.
2. Better security control
Since desktops are centrally managed, the organization can control access, permissions,
and security policies easily.
3. Prevents data leakage
Users can be restricted from saving or copying data to outside devices. This helps
protect confidential company information.
 4. Secure remote access
Users can access their desktop from anywhere, but the desktop and data remain
protected inside the central server.
5. Easy backup and recovery
Virtual desktops can be backed up and restored easily in case of hardware failure or
disaster.

Manageability improvements

1. Centralized management
IT administrators can manage all virtual desktops from one place.
2. Easy maintenance
Software updates, patches, and applications can be installed centrally. Users do not need
to update each computer separately.
3. Fast desktop provisioning
New desktops can be created and assigned to users quickly.
4. Reduced hardware dependency
Users can access desktops even from low-cost devices because the main processing
happens on the server.
5. Easy monitoring
IT admins can track software, usage, and security from the centralized system.

Conclusion
Thus, desktop virtualization improves security by storing data centrally and preventing
unauthorized access. It improves manageability by allowing IT administrators to maintain,
update, monitor, and control all desktops from one central location.

2. What is the role of Virtual Machine Monitor? Explain its functions. refer upc
ques

Answer
A Virtual Machine Monitor (VMM) is also called a hypervisor. It is the software layer that
creates, runs, and manages virtual machines on a physical machine.

The VMM sits between the physical hardware and the virtual machines. It abstracts the
physical machine’s resources such as CPU, memory, storage, and network, and distributes
them to multiple virtual machines as needed.

Physical Hardware

↓
Virtual Machine Monitor / Hypervisor

Virtual Machines

Guest Operating Systems and Applications

Functions of VMM
1. Creates virtual machines

The VMM creates multiple virtual machines on a single physical machine.

2. Allocates resources

It allocates CPU, memory, storage, and network resources to each VM based on its
requirements.

3. Manages virtual devices

It creates and manages virtual devices such as virtual CPU, virtual memory, virtual hard disk,
and virtual network interface card.

4. Provides isolation

Each virtual machine runs independently. If one VM fails or is affected by malware, it does not
directly affect other VMs.

5. Handles I/O operations

When a VM performs input/output operations such as reading from disk or sending data
through the network, the VMM translates the request into physical hardware operations.

6. Supports guest operating systems

The guest operating system interacts with virtual hardware as if it is running on a real physical
machine.

7. Improves resource utilization

The VMM allows multiple VMs to run on one physical server, improving hardware usage and
efficiency.

Conclusion
Thus, the Virtual Machine Monitor acts as the control layer between physical hardware and
virtual machines. It creates VMs, allocates resources, manages virtual hardware, provides
isolation, and allows multiple operating systems to run on a single physical machine.