Can cloud computing exist without virtualisation?

Virtualisation software is used in various ways in cloud computing, where applications or digital services are hosted on the internet. In essence, virtualisation is necessary for the cloud to exist. This technology is what makes cloud offerings such attractive networking, connectivity, storage and cyber security solutions.

What does cloud computing entail?

Cloud computing involves the delivery of computer software and services over the internet. This includes databases, storage, service, networking, analytics and software. There are also various types of cloud architectures in addition to these multiple cloud services. Enterprises are able to choose between hybrid cloud environments, private clouds, or public clouds.

Infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), platform-as-a-service (PaaS), and software-as-a-service (SaaS) are the three main categories of cloud services available. Cloud service providers provide software applications via a web browser when using a SaaS cloud model.

However, many corporate enterprises need more advanced cloud solutions. In these instances, cloud-based PaaS provides businesses with a complete corporate network that can be accessed from any device in any location, including virtual servers and databases.

IaaS is the next level of cloud service. This involves physical components like servers, database storage, and other networking devices. Each of these three categories of cloud services includes virtualisation.

The software that powers cloud computing is virtualisation. It often works in conjunction with cloud technologies and the digital services that cloud computing offers. So, what is virtualisation software exactly and why is it used with cloud computing?

Cloud computing requires virtualisation

You can run multiple operating systems and applications on the same device thanks to virtualisation software. Additionally, it enables the creation of separate virtual environments within the same digital infrastructure.

For example, it allows software developers to test alpha versions of applications in separate environments. Software developers can restart the virtual environment and restore it to a previous state if the application has a bug without affecting other operating systems on the device. Developers can build virtual walls to divide the digital ecosystem into multiple sections through virtualisation.

Both public and private cloud environments use virtualisation. Enterprises can use virtualisation tools like software-defined wide area networks (SD-WAN) or virtual private networks with a variety of cloud-based architectures (VPNs).

SD-WAN offers intelligent network routing by software to systematically choose the best path for critical data traffic to flow. Similarly, with a cloud-based VPN, virtualisation is used to connect users and internet of things (IoT) devices to corporate networks in a secure way from any location.

One of the primary uses of virtualisation in the public cloud is server consolidation. It is also a key benefit of virtualisation software in the cloud. This enables you to split a server for multiple purposes or users. A cloud service provider can share a server among multiple enterprises when using a public cloud environment, like Microsoft Azure or Amazon AWS. Cloud computing's multi-tenanted feature is what makes it so cost-effective and agile.

What benefits does virtualisation have for businesses?

Public clouds with multiple tenants have revolutionised enterprise computing. As fewer physical systems are required when using shared cloud architectures, businesses can maximise their resources and reduce costs. Companies don't need to spend as much money on networking devices and hardware.

With virtualisation, you can use multiple systems and applications with the same hardware, giving you the best return on your investments. Enterprises that use pay-per-use consumption models only pay for the storage and capacity they actually need. Cloud services can be quickly and easily scaled up to handle an increase in data traffic or processing power as business demands grow.

SD-WAN is one example of virtualisation software that has several key benefits for businesses. From a centralised console, it allows you to remotely manage the entire business network. They can be automated to respond to specific business requirements and ensure maximum visibility into network activity. In essence, SD-WAN is a virtualised network overlay that helps business networks operate as efficiently as possible.

When do businesses need a virtualisation or cloud solution?

Costs and power consumption can be reduced through the use of virtualisation. Virtualisation software can split a server that isn't being used to its full capacity to accommodate additional workloads. Businesses that need robust network security and seamless integration with legacy or other architectures can use virtualisation as a means of gaining greater control over the network.

For businesses that need high-performance computing resources, a cloud solution is ideal. They can take advantage of the high processing capacity and flexibility that cloud services provide. Cloud data centres are extremely secure and kept up to date with the latest technologies and computing hardware.

When compared to a company investing in its own private data centre, this offers greater economies of scale. When it comes to data backup and disaster recovery, cloud computing is a reliable solution and cloud providers offer cutting-edge tools and technologies to mitigate any cyber security threats.

Choosing the right virtualisation and cloud provider

Enterprises that want to enhance their computing networks need to find the right partner. Important factors like security compliance and compatibility with existing resources must be taken into consideration. SEACOM Business offers tailored solutions for large enterprises in Kenya.

Our tried and tested cloud and virtualisation services are based on industry-leading standards and the latest technological advancements. We support various digital ecosystems and can design a solution for you based on your business metrics and objectives.

Our clients benefit from industry-leading SLAs and round-the-clock technical support. SEACOM Business understands your ICT, networking and security requirements. For more information or to get a quote for our cloud solutions, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s largest network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including fibre optic networks and subsea cables. We offer a wide range of industry-leading scalable ICT solutions for large companies that operate throughout the region.

SEACOM is privately owned - making it adaptable to the needs of the client. We are the preferred ICT and internet connectivity supplier for African enterprises. We can guarantee fast, reliable and secure internet and networking services at affordable prices.

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