Virtualization is like magic for computers. It lets one computer act like many.
Virtualization is the process of creating a "virtual" version of something.
In computer science, it usually means creating a virtual computer inside a real one.
Example: Imagine one big house with several rooms. Each room looks and works like a full apartment. That’s how one physical computer can run many virtual computers.
Think of virtualization like renting a car. You don’t buy it, but you use it like it's yours. When done, you return it. A virtual machine works the same way. You create it, use it, and delete it when finished.
This creates full virtual computers called virtual machines (VMs).
Each VM has its own operating system.
This creates containers. They share the same OS but work like separate systems.
Examples: Docker, LXC
Combines many storage devices into one virtual storage space.
Creates virtual networks that act like real ones.
Used in cloud computing.
A VM is software that acts like a real computer.
You can install Windows on a Linux machine using a VM.
Popular VM software:
A hypervisor manages virtual machines.
It sits between hardware and virtual machines.
Runs directly on hardware. Fast and powerful.
Examples: VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V
Runs on a host operating system.
Easier for home users.
Example: VirtualBox
Big companies use virtualization to save money.
A single server can host many websites using VMs or containers.
Developers test apps in different environments using virtual machines.
A hotel has one building (like a server). Each guest gets a room (like a VM). Every room has its own key, bed, and bathroom. But they share the same building. That’s like virtualization!
| Feature | Virtual Machine | Container |
|---|---|---|
| Boot Time | Slower (full OS) | Faster |
| Size | Big | Small |
| Isolation | Strong | Less strong |
| Resource Use | More | Less |
Download and install VirtualBox.
Create a virtual machine and install Ubuntu Linux inside it.
Try running it while your main system is still working!
Great job! You now understand the basics of virtualization. 🎉