Virtualization plays a very important role in the cloud computing technology. Normally in the cloud computing, users share the data present in the clouds like application. But actually with the help of virtualization, users shares the Infrastructure. So what is the function of virtualization in Cloud Computing?

The main usage of Virtualization Technology is to provide the applications with the standard versions to their cloud users. Suppose if they release the next version of the application, then cloud provider has to provide the latest version to their cloud users and practically it is possible because it is more expensive.

To overcome this problem we use basically virtualization technology. By using virtualization, all severs and the software application which are required by other cloud providers are maintained by the third party people, and the cloud providers has to pay the money on monthly or annual basis.

Virtualization Definition

Virtualization is the process of running a virtual instance of a computer system in a layer abstracted from the actual hardware. It refers to the running multiple operating systems on a computer system simultaneously.

Purpose of Virtualization from different perspective

• For desktop user: To be able to run applications meant for a different operating system. Without having to switch computers or reboot into a different system.
• For administration of servers: The ability to run different operating systems. But perhaps it offers a way to segment a large system into many smaller parts, allowing the server to be use more efficiently by a number of different users or applications with different needs.
• It also allows for isolation. Keeping programs running inside of a virtual machine safe from the processes taking place in another virtual machine on the same host.

Various Types of Virtualization

1. Data virtualization

It is possible to consolidate data that is spread all over into a single source. It allows companies to treat data as a dynamic supply, which providing processing capabilities that can bring together data from multiple sources, easily accommodate new data sources, and transform data according to user needs. Data virtualization tools sit in front of multiple data sources, so they will treat it as a single source, delivering the needed data at the right time to any application or user.

2. Desktop virtualization

Usually confused with the operating system virtualization. It allows you to deploy multiple operating systems on a single machine desktop virtualization allows a central administrator to deploy simulated desktop environments to hundreds of physical machines at once. It is different to traditional desktop environments which is physically installed, configured, and updated on each machine. Desktop virtualization allows admins to perform mass configurations, updates, and security checks on all virtual desktops.

3. Server virtualization

Servers are computers that function to process a high volume of specific tasks really well so other computers can do a variety of other tasks. Virtualizing a server lets it to do more of those specific functions and involves partitioning it so that the components can serve multiple functions.

4. Operating system virtualization

Operating system virtualization happens at the kernel, the central task managers of operating systems. It’s a useful way to run Linux and Windows environments side-by-side. Enterprises can also push virtual operating systems to computers, which:

• • • Reduces bulk hardware costs, since the computers don’t require such high out-of-the-box capabilities.
    • Increase security; can monitor and isolate all the virtual instances.
    • Limits time spent on IT services like software updates.

5. Network function virtualization

Network functions virtualization (NFV) separates a network’s key functions so they can be distributed among environments. The key functions are like directory services, file sharing, and IP configuration. Once software functions are independent of the physical machines they once lived on, specific functions can be packaged together into a new network and assigned to an environment. Virtualizing networks reduces the number of physical components in need to build multiple, independent networks and is especially popular in the telecommunications industry. The physical component are switches, routers, servers, cables, and hubs.

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