Understanding KVM

Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM) stands out as a virtualization technology in the world of Linux. It allows physical servers to serve as hypervisor hosting machines (VMs). Embedded within the Linux kernel, KVM empowers the creation of VMs with their virtualized hardware components, such as CPUs, memory, storage, and network cards, essentially mimicking a machine. This deep integration into the Linux kernel brings KVM’s performance, security, and stability advantages, making it a dependable option for virtualization requirements.

KVM functions as a type 1 hypervisor, delivering performance similar to hardware—an edge over type 2 hypervisors. Its scalability is another feature; it can dynamically adapt to support an increasing number of VMs, facilitating the implementation of cloud infrastructures. Security remains paramount for KVM due to testing and security updates from the open-source community. Additionally, its standing development history since 2006 ensures a stable virtualization platform.