You may not know it, but Intel has tremendously participated in the rise of the virtualization of servers and desktops. How? Through its processors, which now include virtually all of Intel VT technology. Without this technology, it would be impossible to operate several operating systems at once on the same physical machine, which is the very idea of virtualization. Let’s take a closer look at the association between Intel and virtualization.

Intel’s virtualization technology: Intel VT!

Let’s begin by explaining Intel VT. This is a technology built into most Intel processors: Intel Virtualization Technology. In concrete terms, it is a partitioning of the processor, which that allows for the simultaneous execution of several operating systems at the same time on the same chip, and therefore on the same server or computer. For example, thanks to this technology, it is possible to run Windows 10 OS and Linux Ubuntu OS, each being able to be controlled remotely by 2 different users! A single machine for 2 different needs is as simple as running Word and Gimp at the same time.

Intel and server virtualization

Let’s look at a concrete example: with Intel VT technology, it is possible to run several virtual servers on a single physical server, which is where server virtualization begins. You can therefore run a DHCP server, a DNS server, an Active Directory server, and so on, on a Microsoft or Linux server all at the same time! Each server is autonomous and sealed off.

The advantages of this include more security, simpler maintenance and very easy scalability since the CPU, disk and RAM resources allocated to each virtual machine can be modified at any time! Server migration is also much simpler, if for example you want to migrate your DHCP server, there’s no need to reinstall a new one and transfer the configuration; you can just save the virtual machine and execute it on another virtualization server. Most publishers also offer tools to facilitate the migration of virtual machines.

Intel and desktop virtualization

We talked about how Intel server virtualization has greatly helped with developing, but Intel also plays a very large role in desktop virtualization. First all, a reminder: desktop virtualization can be summarized as executing dozens if not hundreds of desktops on a single physical server. Once again, Intel VT technology enables many different applications.

There are numerous advantages to this: first of all, there are financial savings, but also energy savings because you’re simply replacing hundreds of PCs with one or two physical servers. Also, IT departments gain in productivity because most desktop virtualization solutions offer a centralized dashboard to control the stock, so IT technicians no longer have to physically go and install new software, perform updates, carry out repairs and so on. So many advantages! This savings in time allows them to offer more service to their users.

The IT system therefore switches from a center of costs to a center of service, and even becomes a competitive advantage for any organization that dares to innovate.

The association between Intel and Wisper

Wisper offers its desktop virtualization solution: the ceBox® solution is an innovative desktop virtualization solution in partnership with Intel. The principle is different from classic virtualization services because there is no server infrastructure! Virtual machines are executed locally on Intel NUC kits, which are small access points with impressive characteristics. This solution encompasses all of the advantages of classic desktop virtualization, but also gives access to its users to virtual PCs with unparalleled performance: 3D, PAO, CAO, HD Video, etc.