Server virtualization software enables the creation of multiple virtual servers on a single physical server. dividing the physical server’s hardware and software resources into multiple virtual servers. Each virtual server can run independently with its own operating system and applications. This allows for optimal use of processing power, as each server can be dedicated to a specific task or application.
In a traditional server environment, one server would typically run one application or task, which means that many servers would be needed to handle a company. Occasionally, with server virtualization, multiple applications or tasks can be run on a single server, which can greatly reduce the number of physical servers needed.
Benefits of Best Server Virtualization Software
One of the key benefits of server virtualization is consolidation. Many companies will dedicate one physical server to a single application or task. However, if multiple applications or tasks are running on the same server, the processing capabilities of the server may not be used optimally. In such cases, server virtualization can be used to consolidate all of these applications or tasks into a single server running different virtual environments. This can help companies reduce the physical space required in their data centers, which can lead to significant cost savings.
Another key benefit of server virtualization is redundancy. Network virtualization administrators can create virtual servers on different physical machines and host the same application on them. In the event that one physical server fails, the other virtual server can respond to user queries without any additional hardware required. This can help ensure that critical applications remain available even in the event of a hardware failure.
Server virtualization can also help companies cut down on expenses. By making use of resources that are already available, server virtualization can reduce the number of physical servers required. This can lead to significant cost savings in terms of maintenance expenses and energy consumption.
Finally, server virtualization can make it easy to migrate virtual servers from one physical machine to another, even if the machines are using different processors. This can be particularly useful when upgrading hardware or migrating to a new data center.
7 Best Server Virtualization Software for 2023
The infrastructure of a company can be expanded and high workloads can be supported with the aid of server virtualization software. A number of server virtualization software options are available in the market, and their impressive features are attracting many companies to use them. Presented below is a list of the top 8 server virtualization software solutions.
1. Red Hat Virtualization
Red Hat Virtualization is a server virtualization tool solution that excels at managing workloads in Linux and Microsoft environments. It features an easy-to-use interface that allows users to manage their work efficiently in a short period. It is compatible with large deployments and requires significant server density.
Red Hat Virtualization uses Red Hat Enterprise Linux and the Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) to process applications and virtualized resources. It helps regulate the storage and improve infrastructure and networking resources efficiency according to workload optimization. Additionally, Red Hat Virtualization Manager can scale up to 400 hosts and handle the maximum tested workload of around 1 VM per GB. With its cost-friendly and desktop issue-prevention features, Red Hat Virtualization is definitely worth considering.
2. VMware vSphere
VMware vSphere is an ideal server virtualization tool option for large companies with heterogeneous environments. It is designed to handle significant workloads and is an excellent blend of security, visibility, and migration, including hybrid cloud. VMware vSphere is a great platform that covers both small accounting applications and much larger artificial intelligence. It provides several beneficial features, including Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) acceleration, Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA) over Converged Ethernet v2 (RoCE) support, and vSphere High Availability.
VMware vSphere is efficient at providing secure applications in a typical operating environment, which makes it an ideal choice for companies that prioritize security. This software protects the hybrid cloud infrastructure following its built-in intrinsic security, which ensures that operating systems can effectively stop malware and ransomware in their tracks.
3. Oracle VM Server
The construction of simulated machines on Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, and Oracle Solaris systems is supported by the flexible open-source virtualization tool platform known as Oracle VM Server. For tech-savvy consumers, it offers a highly customizable user interface that is simple to use. The platform constantly updates its features, keeping up with the latest market trends. Although it is open-source, it offers extension packs that can be downloaded to extend its functionality.
Oracle VM Server is equipped with Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) authentication and an SDK, which enhances its security and authentication requirements. This virtual server is a popular option for consumers because, to a range of services, it provides.
4. IBM PowerVM
IBM PowerVM is another open-source virtualization tool. It offers an environment suitable for AIX, IBM Linux, and IBM clients. IBM PowerVM is ideal for small businesses that require assistance in dealing with complex solutions. It is a cost-effective option for enterprises with the necessary tools to deal with over-engineered solutions.
The hypervisors used by IBM PowerVM are flexible, enabling faster provisioning of cloud services by automating the deployment of VMs and storage virtualization. This virtual server consolidates workloads onto fewer systems, promoting resource utilization and cost reduction. It efficiently shares resources with all applications running in the operating system to enhance the performance of multi-cloud infrastructure.
5. ScaleWay
ScaleWay is a cloud-based server that offers a range of pricing plans to cater to different business needs. It charges users hourly for used services, making it a fair deal for businesses. There are no startup fees, and the setup procedure is quick and simple.
ScaleWay has servers that support ARM processors with around 32 and 64 bits, and with Intel, they have 64 bits and capacities ranging from 1 core to 64 cores for ARMv8 and 12 cores for Xeon D. ScaleWay is compatible with Linux and is supported by SSDs, which increase the steps around 50GB. The platform is regularly updated to keep up with market trends, and it supports IPv6 on all cloud servers. It offers backup options for a quality user experience.
6. Citrix Hypervisor
Citrix Hypervisor is an enterprise-grade server virtualization software that offers exceptional 3D graphical support, allowing you to run Windows and Linux workloads. This virtual server is optimized for application virtualization infrastructure, making it easy to handle different workload types, mixed operating systems, and storage or networking configurations.
Citrix Hypervisor is perfect for large deployments and ensures a high-definition user experience with centralized management. It also has excellent compatibility with Microsoft, Google, and AWS, and offers top-notch security, live migration, and great storage options.
Read More: VMware vSphere 8 is Now GA (General Availability)
7. Proxmox VE
Proxmox VE, on the other hand, combines KVM and LXC virtualization technologies to offer virtual machines and containers for Linux and Windows server application workloads. It is perfect for large deployments and has a stable, user-friendly web-based management system. Proxmox VE offers high availability, software-defined storage and networking, and clusters with its built-in web interface.
It also provides other useful tools like backup, restore live migration, and storage replication, as well as a built-in firewall for system protection. Proxmox VE is widely used worldwide, with over 2.3 million installations, and is available in over 20 languages for better user communication.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Server Virtualization Tool
There are a number of things to consider when choosing a server virtualization tool for your business to make an informed choice.
Compatibility
The first is operating system compatibility. It’s essential to ensure that the software supports the operating system used by your systems. However, some businesses prefer to remain with particular suppliers, like Microsoft, Oracle, IBM, or Citrix and may need to make a decision in accordance with this preference. Consider platforms like Redhat or Proxmox if you’re seeking open-source applications.
Scalability
Scalability is yet another vital aspect to take into account. Some virtualization software can scale up better than others and can handle a considerable number of virtual machines (VMs). Choosing a platform that can scale up and down VMs based on demand can be highly beneficial.
Consumption of Resources
The consumption of resources is another critical consideration, as some server virtualization tool utilizes a lot of memory space. Choose the program based on the environment you wish to create. Some have advanced features that work better on sophisticated platforms and meet the demand for memory and CPU power. For basic needs, it’s best to choose software that saves space for VMs without unnecessary features.
Hardware Compatibility
Hardware compatibility is another factor to consider. Virtualization platforms can have many hardware issues, and hosted hypervisors will offer support for different hardware types, whereas bare-bones virtualizers will only support certain hardware. If you plan to change the hardware of the physical server, ensure that the new hardware supports the virtualization software of your choice.
Ownership Expenses
Ownership expenses are also essential to consider. Besides the cost of the virtualization software, you’ll need to spend money on OS licenses, hardware, support, and training. Additionally, you may also need to purchase advanced management tools. Keeping all these factors in mind when selecting the software is crucial to make the best decision for your company.
Wrapping up
Now that you have an understanding of server virtualization and the various best server virtualization software options available. You are better equipped to select the appropriate server virtualization software to match your business requirements.
Pretty informative, thanks for sharing the best server virtualization software.