Computer Virtualization and the Cloud

In this book, the reader will learn the basics of virtualization techniques for data center operations, security, testing, debugging, and applications in embedded systems. It covers popular applications such as VmWare, Xen, Hyper-V, QEMU and KVM, and others. The history of virtualization will be discussed, and the nature of virtualization compared to emulation. The functions of a Hypervisor will be explored, as well as the relationships with the guest operating systems. System virtual machines and Process virtual machines are compared. The Java and Android virtual machines are covered. The latest techniques of hardware assist to virtualization in the x86-64 and ARM architectures is covered. The natural progression from virtualization to Cloud computing is explored. A glossary of terms, and a bibliography is included.