What is Virtual Machine?
A software-based computer that operates inside a real computer is called a virtual machine (VM). Although it shares hardware with a "host" system, it functions as a separate physical machine with its own operating system (OS), processor, memory, and storage.
How it works
A piece of software known as a hypervisor, or virtual machine monitor, is necessary for virtual machines. By serving as a traffic cop and allocating resources (such as CPU and RAM) to ensure that each virtual machine operates in a separate, isolated environment, the hypervisor sits between the actual hardware and the virtual machines.
Two main categories of hypervisors exist:
Type 1 (bare-metal): Utilises the actual hardware for operation. These are commonly seen in cloud environments and huge data centres (e.g., VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V).
Type 2 (Hosted): Functions as an application running on top of an OS, such as macOS or Windows. These are frequently used for personal usage (e.g., VMware Workstation, Oracle VirtualBox).
Important Elements
The actual physical computer or server that supplies the underlying hardware resources is known as the host machine.
The virtual environment (or several environments) operating on top of the host is known as the guest virtual machine.
The specialised software layer known as the hypervisor is responsible for creating and managing virtual machines (VMs) by assigning CPU, RAM, and disc space to each one.
Principal Virtual Machine Types
System virtual machines (VMs) allow you to run a complete operating system, such as Linux, on a Windows computer by simulating an entire computer system.
Process virtual machines (VMs) are made to run a single program in a separate setting. The Java Virtual Machine is a well-known example (JVM).
What Makes a Virtual Machine Useful?
Security & Isolation: Programmes operating within virtual machines are unable to disrupt the host system. They are therefore perfect for securely testing new apps or dubious data.
Run Multiple OSs: On a single physical device, you can run multiple operating systems (such as Windows, macOS, and Linux) concurrently.
Resource Efficiency: Businesses can save money on hardware and energy by combining multiple "virtual" servers onto a single physical server by using virtual machines (VMs).
Snapshots & Recovery: A virtual machine's present state can be "snapshot"ed. You can quickly return to that earlier condition if something breaks.
Popular VM Software
Popular tools include:
Oracle VirtualBox: A free, open-source option for personal use.
VMware Workstation: A robust choice for both personal and enterprise use.
Microsoft Hyper-V: Built into professional versions of Windows.
How to Deploy a Virtual Machine (VM)
Sign in to the Azure Portal with your Microsoft Azure Login Details
On the homepage, search for “Virtual Machines“ in the search box.
Click on “Create”
Choose the “Azure Virtual Machine“ option
Configure the “Basics“
Subscription: Choose your Azure subscription.
Resource Group: Create a new resource group or select an existing one to organize your resources.
VM Name: Provide a unique name for your VM.
Region: Choose a region for the VM, such as East US or West Europe.
Availability Options: Select any required options like high availability.
Image: Select the operating system (Windows) for the VM.
Administrator Account: Set up the username and password and RDP for logging into the VM.
Click on the “Review/Create“ button to create your virtual machine
Wait for “validation“
Click on “create.“
Once “deployment“ is complete, click on the “Go to resource“ button
Click on “connect“ to connect to your VM
Download “RDP File“ to your physical computer
Right-click on the downloaded file in your local drive and click “Connect“
Click “connect“ on the dialog box that pops up
Put in your login credentials (your username and password) used to create the VM
Click Yes and wait for the VM to be launched.
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