7 Advantages of Server Virtualization

Server virtualization is a term that refers to converting a single physical server into multiple virtual servers. This is done because virtualization software partitions (or divides) the physical server into several independent virtual servers that run the same copy of the operating system (OS). This innovation has been revolutionary for data centers, as virtualization software essentially allows administrators to multiply their available computing environments.

 Virtual hardware offers plenty of other benefits, but here are a few of the top ones. Let’s explore some exciting trends in virtualization.

• 66% of companies have reported increased agility due to virtualization adoption. 
• 34% of companies allocate virtualization budgets and deploy technology within a year, while 17% do not. 
• Companies observe a 50% improvement in operational efficiency after adopting virtualization. 
• Businesses with 100 computers or more have adopted virtualization, and smaller businesses, with fewer than 100 computers are following up quickly.
• 53% of enterprises and 33% of small businesses are increasing their x86 server virtualization.
• 60% of businesses deploy cloud technology to store confidential data.

Data centers contain numerous physical servers dedicated to handling a network’s workload. This hardware is expensive, so if you don’t need every server in the facility, you’re wasting money on hardware resources, power, cooling, and maintenance. Virtualization allows you to reduce the number of physical servers you need to run your business.

Installing a physical server is a long, arduous, and expensive process. First, you have to order the server and wait for the hardware to arrive. Then you’ll have to wait for the operating system and applications to install before finally being able to use it—not to mention that you’ll also need to purchase racks and cables for the device. Server virtualization allows you to clone a virtual machine within minutes without costs.

Because each physical server takes up a certain amount of space, you can only own so many. That number is directly dependent on your data center’s capacity. This isn’t as much of an issue with virtual machines, however. Although they still need a physical server, virtual environments only take up virtual space. This means you can multiply the available servers without creating extra space.

Physical servers produce a lot of heat, and if they get too hot, they don’t work effectively. To prevent overheating, servers need to be cooled. Since virtual servers reduce the number of physical servers needed, you won’t have to spend as much on cooling services. A lower number of servers also means fewer machines need power.

The greatest benefit of server virtualization is convenience. This technology offers convenience in various ways, one of the most important being improving disaster recovery. A virtual machine can be moved quickly from one server to another. Backing up data can also be done quickly, as a company can create a replication of the virtual server they’re currently using.

Having fewer servers in your data center means your IT staff will need to do more with less. This leads to admins who are more agile and efficient. Fewer servers also mean there are fewer servers to maintain and manage, which grants your IT staff time to focus on other tasks.

One of the common issues with physical servers is server sprawl. Before server virtualization, administrators had to over-allocate server resources to meet demand. Since server virtualization creates multiple virtual servers within a single server, admins are no longer forced to over-allocate resources.

When it comes to managed server solutions, no one beats Stability Networks. Our team of highly experienced technicians will monitor, maintain, and keep the data in your server safe and secure. If you want to learn more about our comprehensive server management solutions or other services, call us today!