Difference Between Virtualization and Cloud Computing
There is a direct link between virtualization and cloud computing, so it won’t be entirely wrong to think they mean the same thing. However, there are differences between the two terms, which we will discuss in this article. But first off, let’s look at these two terms in detail.
What is Virtualization?
Virtualization is a technology that abstracts physical IT resources into logical resources, enabling more efficient resource utilization. While it’s a fundamental enabler of cloud computing, it can exist independently. The process involves partitioning physical hardware into different places—this could be storage hardware, databases, or networks. The duplicated programs are then pushed onto the Internet for cloud computing. Through virtualization, we can have cloud services such as webmail, cloud storage, servers, project management tools, etc.
Virtualization is done in various ways. Different programs have multiple virtualized ways, such as storage platforms, servers, workstations, etc. The different types of virtualization include:
- Storage virtualization
- Server virtualization
- Data virtualization
- Network virtualization
- Operating system virtualization
- Application virtualization
- Container virtualization
- GPU virtualization
- Memory virtualization
- Desktop virtualization (VDI)
What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is a model for enabling ubiquitous, on-demand access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources delivered through various service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and deployment models. These services include software, servers, databases, cloud storage platforms, etc. So, it is safe to say that without virtualization, cloud computing won’t be available.
Today, several companies have invested in cloud services—building large database centers and having them virtualized for cloud computing. Businesses that provide these services are known as cloud service providers. They offer you the services based on what you want. You can buy petite, minor, or ample space to store and manage your data. The service fee is either monthly or annually. Cloud computing has many benefits—security, flexibility, scalability, etc. Many businesses now use cloud computing services instead of building similar systems, which could cost them a lot of money.
Cloud computing has also been beneficial to not just businesses but individuals from various walks of life. If you think you aren’t using cloud computing yet, you probably forgot that you have an email box—where you receive messages with files and also send the same out. Modern cloud services include AI/ML platforms, serverless computing, edge computing services, and specialized industry solutions alongside traditional storage and computing services.
Cloud programs are deployed to the cloud in different ways:
- Public cloud
- Private cloud
- Hybrid cloud
- Multi-cloud
- Distributed Cloud
These are also known as the types of cloud deployment. Cloud deployment is how a particular cloud platform is implemented—including how it is being hosted and who can access it. The most used cloud deployment type is the public cloud. As the name implies, it is available for public use. If you’re a business owner and want a private cloud, you can buy one that allows you to operate from your private server.
Difference between Virtualization and Cloud Computing
As you can see, these two terms are directly linked, as mentioned earlier. But the difference lies in that one is the product of the other. Cloud computing is feasible through virtualization. While virtualization, through its different types, partitions various programs such as storage hardware, databases, servers, etc., cloud computing has nothing to do with putting these programs together to function. Instead, cloud computing comes in when these services are ready to roll.
So, cloud computing delivers these services to users. The delivery process could encompass maintaining the system, ensuring the security of users’ data, making the various plans available for subscription, etc.
You can see the difference between these two—one brings the system to life, and another is responsible for running the service. This includes managing the users and ensuring the services are effective—backup, data recovery, and overall efficient system running. So, think of virtualization as duplicating programs that can be hosted online for remote access. Cloud computing is the process that oversees the programs available for use over the internet and ensures that the services are utilized effectively.
Virtualization vs Cloud Computing—What is the Link?
If you’re entirely new to cloud computing, you might still question the link between these terms. Otherwise, it is possible to understand the link if you have read it from the beginning. While virtualization is a key enabling technology for cloud computing, modern cloud platforms incorporate numerous other technologies, including containerization, microservices architecture, and orchestration systems
Suppose you can store your data on the cloud using any cloud services. This happens because modern cloud storage utilizes distributed systems, object storage, and software-defined storage technologies, going beyond simple hardware virtualization. The word “cloud” is just a metaphor—it means you can access these services remotely from anywhere as long as you can connect to the internet.
The process that has made this possible is virtualization. The hardware that was already developed passed through a virtualization process—it’s been multiplied to make a single powerful program that is pushed to the Internet to function as cloud computing. You can see why it’s not wrong to say cloud computing is the product of virtualization. So, the link between the two is that one (cloud computing) won’t be feasible without the other. It is through virtualization that we’re able to use cloud services today.
While there are a few differences, as you have read, virtualization and cloud computing could be seen as the same thing. However, what is essential is that cloud service, which is made achievable through virtualization processes, has benefited businesses and individuals. Many companies don’t bother about maintaining hardware to store and manage data as cloud services have provided a secure, convenient, and affordable way of storing data and using other services it offers.
Organizations should evaluate their cloud strategy based on business needs, compliance requirements, and technical capabilities, potentially engaging with cloud consultants or managed service providers for implementation guidance.
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