Write short notes on (i) Software Virtualization (ii) Network Virtualization
i) Software Virtualization
It is the virtualization of applications or computer programs. One of the most widely used software virtualization is Software Virtualization Solution (SVS) which is developed by Altris.
It is similar to hardware which is simulated as virtual machines. Software virtualization involves creating a virtual layer or virtual hard drive space where applications can be installed. From this virtual space, the application can be run as they have been installed onto host OS.
Once user finished using application, they can switch it off. When a application is switched off, any changes that the application made to the host OS will be completely reversed.
This means that registry entries and installation directories will have no trace of the application being installed, executed at all.
Benefits of software virtualization are,
- The ability to run applications without making permanent registry or library changes.
- The ability to run multiple versions of the same application.
- The ability to install applications that would otherwise conflict with each other.
- The ability to test new applications in an isolated environment.
- It is easy to implement.
ii) Network Virtualization
Network virtualization is the process of combining hardware and software network resources and network functionality into a single, software based administrative entity which is said to be virtual network.
Network virtualization involves platform virtualization. Network virtualization is categories into external network virtualization and internal network virtualization.
External network virtualization is combining of many networks into a virtual unit. Internal network virtualization is providing network like functionality to the software containers on a single system.
Network virtualization enables connections between applications, services, dependencies and end users to be accurately emulated in the test environment.
