The terms ‘virtualization' and ‘cloud computing' describe two different subjects, although they are related in that they both deal with the provision of remote computing. 

We'll take a look at the salient factors in a virtualization vs cloud computing comparison, but we'll start with a short description of what each term means.

 

What is Virtualization?

Virtualization takes resources with a hardware basis and remodels them via virtualization software, to be used on another machine. There can be several different simulated environments, known as virtual machines (VMs), running on the same system. The distribution of machine power is governed by a layer of software known as the hypervisor.

There's a wide range of virtualization varieties, including server virtualization (which is what we're concentrating on here), data virtualization, software virtualization, desktop virtualization, and storage virtualization.

Advantages of virtualization

1.     Resource efficiency

Each virtual machine can perform as an independent virtual server, used by a number of agents, each with direct access to resources. Virtualization represents excellent computing resource use: one machine's power can be spread over several virtual machines.

2.     Separate but connected

With each VM behaving as an independent computer, its data confidentiality is reasonably assured. At the same time, however, there is connectivity should one need to link with another user or to the host machine.

3.     The power of many

The connection of a number of machines via virtualization delivers high communal computing power to the host physical server.

4.     Optimal uptime

Automated load management sees that no one section is overburdened. Backup servers are ready to step in should there be an outage on the primary server.

What is cloud computing?

 

Cloud computing is the process by which resources are used remotely and accessed via self-service portals into the cloud environment. A cloud computing service provider enables a user to enjoy all the benefits of software without having to have packages, files, or applications actually present on their computer or physical infrastructure in their organization.

There are several varieties of cloud services. The most common is Software as a Service (SaaS), which allows access to a program through a browser or app. There are many examples of SaaS out there, from B2B SEO services to video streaming facilities.

There's also Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), and Integrated Platform as a Service (iPaaS) which deliver far more (such as servers and storage capacity) should the user require it.

Benefits of cloud computing

1.     Reliability and continuity

Should there be a problem with a user's access to it, there will be mirrored provisions elsewhere in the cloud that will deliver a resumption of connectivity with no data loss.

2.     Scalability

A startup can pay a cloud service provider just for the level of cloud computing service they need. No massive investment in gear they're just not likely to use (at least for a while) is necessary. When the business does grow, and it needs extra capability, there can be automatic scaling, meaning minimal management effort.

3.     Cost efficiency

Rather than having big chunks of outlay necessitated by investments in physical gear, cloud computing is paid for with a regular monthly plan. This makes financial planning a whole lot easier. What's more, implementing SaaS such as tracking software can improve your sales team's lead management, ultimately resulting in increased revenue. So the investment can more than pay for itself.

4.     Great collaboration

The connectivity of a cloud-based system makes for joined-up heaven. Workers have access to software and can collaborate on projects at home or strewn around the world.

Virtualization vs Cloud Computing

OK then, so what are the key differences between the two?

1.    The human factor

In virtual computing, there is a human element in service provision. An admin agent interacts with the hypervisor and sets up resources and networking in order to generate the virtual machine. In cloud computing, this process has been automated by an API (Application Programmable Interface), so there's no need to have an employee set up the relationship.

2.    Specificity

Virtualization is all about delivering a specific dedicated resource to a particular user for a specific job, perhaps on just a single machine. Cloud computing is all about providing a range of resources for use by multiple users in all manner of pursuits.

3.    Hardware

Virtualization needs dedicated physical hardware to set up VMs. In cloud computing, no hardware is needed at all (apart from the device you're using to access the software).

 

4.    Flexibility

Because of the need for dedicated hardware to spin up or down VMs, virtualization is not as flexible as cloud computing. Cloud computing has flexibility and scalability in spades: it has resource levels that are mind-boggling, but you only pay for what your business needs at that time.

Whether your need is strictly for access to a particular piece of software or you have a more encompassing requirement, such as for iPaaS integrations, cloud computing can deliver at your level.

Conclusion

While there are certainly connections when it comes to virtualization vs cloud computing, there are fundamental differences too. Which one is right for you will depend on the nature of the work you do, your business goals, and how your business is structured. And, of course, how much you want to have to spend on physical machines.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nick Brown - Accelerate Agency

 

Nick Brown is the founder & CEO of accelerate, a SaaS SEO agency. Nick has launched several successful online businesses, writes for Forbes, published a book and has grown accelerate from a UK based agency to a company that now operates across US, APAC and EMEA.