Introduction to Virtualisation: What Is a Virtual Machine?

Virtualisation is when a physical item is transformed into a virtual version of the same item. For example, when a physical DVD gets converted into a digital file stored on a computer. 

A simple way to conceptualise virtualisation is to think of it as software pretending to be hardware. Virtualisation uses specialised software that can mimic hardware functionalities. The following article examines virtual machines’ role in this process and how you can use them. 

What is a virtual machine (VM)?

A virtual machine is not a physical machine or physical place but a virtual imitation. It’s a file that replicates the computing environment of a physical device. It’s similar to how virtual reality (VR) environments replicate the real world. Still, we can perform real-world functions in VR, such as exploring and interacting with objects. Instead of imitating video game functions, virtual machine software emulates computer system functions. With VR, you can explore a new environment without leaving your home. With VM software, you can run programmes and store data without using hardware. 

[entity card: Google IT Support Professional Certificate]

What are VMs used for?

Creating a simulated version of a computer system makes it possible to separate hardware resources from their physical infrastructure. Many applications for this technology exist. The list below outlines five examples:

1. Cloud computing. Virtualisation technology creates virtual resources from physical hardware. Then, cloud computing distributes those virtualised resources via the internet. Examples of cloud computing include Dropbox, Salesforce, and Google Drive. 

2. Software testing. You can use virtual machines to create fully functional software development environments. These environments are helpful because they’re isolated from the surrounding infrastructure. Isolation allows developers to test software without impacting the rest of the system. 

3. Malware investigations. VMs enable malware researchers to test malicious programmes in separate environments. Instead of spreading to the rest of the infrastructure, a VM contains the malware for study.

4. Disaster management. You can use a virtual machine to replicate a system in a cloud environment. This replication ensures that if the system is compromised, another version exists to replace it. For example, iPhone users regularly back up their data by syncing their devices with iCloud. iCloud stores a virtual version of the phone, allowing users to transport their existing data onto a new device in the event of theft or damage.

4. Running programmes with incompatible hardware. Suppose you have an old application on your phone. It hasn’t released an update in a few years, but your phone has updated several times since. Since the application hasn’t updated too, it may no longer be compatible with your phone’s current operating system (OS). You can use a virtual machine to simulate the previous OS and run the old application there.

What is the difference between virtual machines and containers?

When researching virtual machines, you will likely encounter the term container. Containers are often confused with virtual machines because they serve similar purposes. But VMs and containers have many distinguishing features. The main difference between the two lies in the virtualisation process. Traditionally, virtualisation creates a virtual version of the physical machine, including:

•  A virtual copy of the hardware

• An application

• The application’s libraries and dependencies

• A version of the hardware’s OS (the guest OS) to run the application

In contrast, containers share the host hardware’s OS instead of creating a new version. Since containers avoid creating a separate guest OS, they can hold just the application and its libraries. The result is a faster and smaller virtualised system. Containers are appealing because of the speed and ease they’re transported to other software environments.  

Advantages and disadvantages of virtual machines

How to work with virtual machines 

If you’re interested in virtual machines, several occupations work with them. These occupations belong to the computer and information technology industry. Here are some examples of careers in virtualisation.

Virtual server administrator

What they do: Virtual server administrators operate, configure, and troubleshoot virtual databases. Their primary focus areas are system monitoring and cybersecurity. Attention to detail is essential in this role. 

Average annual salary (UK): £36,784 [1]

Where to begin: If you’re interested in becoming a virtual server administrator, consider obtaining a computer science-relevant degree such as a Master of Science in Cybersecurity. 

Virtualisation engineer 

What they do: Virtualisation engineers manage virtual computing platforms. They troubleshoot issues with end-users, handle data migrations, and set up and maintain virtual machines. A virtualisation engineer must be up to date on the latest, most efficient virtualisation practices, so continued education is a priority. 

Average annual salary (UK): £39,860 [2]

Where to begin: Relevant degrees for this career path include a Master of Computer and Information Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science.

Cloud architect 

What they do: A cloud architect oversees cloud computing strategies for organisations. They focus on cloud design, management, and maintenance. Cloud architects translate technical requirements into architectural projects and they must have excellent leadership and communication skills. 

Average annual salary (UK): £78,498 [3]

Where to begin: A degree in a related field such as computer science or information technology can also be highly beneficial. Some universities offer cloud computing specialisations. 

The computer and information technology field is fast-paced. Many employees prefer candidates who have previous experience working with specific systems and technologies. An excellent way to increase your strength as a job candidate is to earn Professional Certificates in related fields of study. For example, the Google Cloud Certification: Cloud Network Engineer Professional Certificate.

How to create your own virtual machine

There are opportunities to work with virtual machines and virtualisation technology exist outside of professional positions. Platforms and tools are available to develop your own virtual machine project, like the Google Cloud Console. Building a virtual machine requires knowledge of cloud computing and operating systems. If you want to learn how to create a virtual machine, consider the Google Cloud Training Project: Creating a Virtual Machine. 

Learn more about virtual machines with Coursera

Whether you want to create a virtual machine on your own or pursue a career in virtualisation, you can get started today. Develop the skills you need to succeed in this field by earning the Google IT Support Professional Certificate through Coursera. This Professional Certificate will set you up with a strong basis in IT skills that will stand out to employers and can be expanded on to pursue many different careers in virtualisation.