5 types of server virtualization explained

Server virtualization allows IT administrators to abstract network, storage, and compute resources, creating dedicated environments for applications while reducing hardware dependencies. This white paper explores five key types:

• Hardware virtualization: Assigns CPU parts to workloads, offering dedicated environments.
• Hardware-assisted virtualization: Uses hardware capabilities with software handling processing.
• Hypervisor-based virtualization: Includes Type 1 (bare-metal) and Type 2 (hosted).
• Paravirtualization: Operates workloads in isolated domains with modified OS.
• OS-level virtualization: Containerization allows resource sharing.

The ideal type depends on OS, workload, performance, and budget.