Difference between Virtualization and Cloud Computing

In the tech world, ‘cloud’ is often used as a common term that is wrongly perceived to be synonymous to virtualization. In reality, both the web technologies have some similarities but the terms cannot be used interchangeably. Both cloud computing and virtualization is different in real world applications and they bring a significant impact in the decision-making process at the organizational level. 

Before comparing the Cloud Computing and Virtualization, let’s understand their basic definitions. 

Cloud Computing – The cloud computing is defined as the practice of using remote server networks, (which is hosted on the internet rather than a local server or personal computer) to store, manage and process data. 

Virtualization – The virtualization is the software that creates various dedicated resources by segregating the physical infrastructures. In other words, virtualization is the fundamental technology powering cloud computing. 

The Difference 

In simple terms, Virtualization manipulates the hardware and cloud computing is the result of that manipulation. In other words, being the fundamental element of cloud computing, the virtualization helps in value delivery for cloud computing. The true features of cloud are scalability, automated management, capability of self-service, elasticity and the pay-as-per-use service. None of these services are inherent in the case of virtualization.  Here are some pertinent differences between these two –

1. While in cloud computing, internet services are taken care of by the wide area network; in virtualization, one needs to control the internet management. 
   
2. Cloud computing can be accessed with the help of internet and can use virtualization.
   
3. The virtualization of machines is not dependent on physical location and is done with the help of cloud computing.
   
4. The virtualization can exist without cloud computing. But not the vice versa.  
   

The Confusion 

The virtualization and cloud computing together work for a common cause of computing resource maximization. The cloud computing and virtualization are many times confused for each other as they work in tandem to deliver a different kind of services. The virtualization products often get included in the cloud to provide various computer services. 

How To Analyse If A Business Needs Virtualization Or Cloud Computing Solution?

Understanding whether a business needs virtualization or not is a crucial decision where enterprises must conduct an in-depth analysis. This must be done to determine the total cost of expenditure, capital expenditures, scalability requirements, security measures needed, operational expenditures and how much potential will it have in bringing a vital transformation in the decision making process.

It has also been witnessed that cloud solutions offer the best solution for a business that requires-

1. Outsourcing of routine administration, care and feeding of supporting systems that form a critical part of the internal IT resources.
   
2. Faster and easier cloud start-up.
   
3. Pay as you go model that allows paying for the needs. Also, businesses need not invest in various products for supporting network and systems like data archiving, off-site storage, spam/ antivirus or encryption of data. 
   

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