Virtualization and Cloud Computing

Hey everyone! In this post we are going to talk about Virtualization and Cloud Computing. This two terms can be confusing and may lead to some misunderstandings but today we are going to clearly define both of them and explain the importance of both technologies in our Data Center.

So, let's get started. What is virtualization? Virtualization consists in the creation of a virtual version of any technological resource through software. The virtualization software is the technology that supports cloud computing.

This technology runs workstations, servers, storage units or independent systems separately from the physical infrastructure (the physical hardware layer).

The main difference between Virtualization and Cloud Computing is that through virtualization, the software manipulates the hardware and the cloud computing is a case of application of that behavior.

The Cloud Computing consists of the delivery of shared computing resources through software or data that are delivered on demand as a service accessed through internet.

So in conclusion, Cloud Computing is a way of achieving some resources like storage, processing units or other services without having to invest in the physical infrastructure needed and virtualization is the technology that allows us to handle, access and manage those resources.

cloud computing vs data center

Once we cleared those terms, it's time to start thinking about its implication in Data Centers. Building an own Data Center is optimal if your company needs a customized service in a dedicated system with all the data and equipment under the control of the company. A cloud solution for our Data Center can be suitable if we need a scalable system that has to adapt to our traffic and the growth of a company for example. When we choose to build our data Center in a Cloud Computing platform we also have to consider that we may not have as much control since the cloud solution vendor is managing the system.

A part from the scalability and control of the Data Center the security and cost are also things that have to be considered when choosing between a cloud solution and a private infrastructure. In terms of security, the fact that in Cloud Computing is an external service, you have to trust the service provider when it comes to secure you information and applications but if you choose to have your own infrastructure you are responsible for you own security systems.

When talking about costs, a cloud solution is more cost-effective. Building a data center takes more capital and resources to get it up and running and the costs can be a problem for companies with a small budget. Cloud computig providers offer a wide variety of solutions and prices that meet the requirements of the companies and can scale to their budgets.

I hope that this information helped you to understand what virtualization and cloud computing are and what role they play on a Data Center.

See you in future posts!