A virtual machine is important for enterprise infrastructure because it allows a business to run many systems on one physical server. This makes operations simpler and more efficient. As companies use more digital services like cloud, AI, and online platforms, their systems become more complex. Because of this, they need a better way to manage and control everything efficiently.
Because of this, a virtual machine, or VM, becomes a good solution. It works like a real computer with its own system, memory, storage, and power. This allows users to run applications and tasks just like on a physical machine.
As digital use keeps growing, the need for these systems also grows. Precedence Research (2024) valued the global market at USD 11.11 billion in 2024. The market will grow significantly over the next decade. It will reach USD 43.81 billion by 2034. This shows that more businesses are using this technology to support their work. Because of this change, industries like hyperscalers, OTT providers, and telecom companies use it to keep their systems stable and easy to grow.
As more work moves to the cloud and across many places, companies also need strong and stable systems. In this case, virtual machines help systems run well even when needs change.
What is a virtual machine?
A virtual machine is a software-based computer that runs inside a physical server and works like a real one. Because of this setup, one server can run many systems at the same time instead of just one system. As a result, the system uses resources better while each system works on its own and does not disturb others.
This setup also lets different systems run on the same server. For example, one VM can run Windows while another runs Linux, which makes things more flexible.
Two main types exist based on how people use them. In the previous research from Precedence System, the system types run a full system and companies often use them in data centers and cloud systems. They held around 64% of the market share in 2024. On the other hand, process types run one app in a separate space, which is useful for modern app building and container use.
Because of these benefits, many companies now use virtual machines to work better and save cost. According to 360 Research Reports (2024), more than 78% of enterprise work now runs on virtual systems, which shows how common this has become.
How does a virtual machine work?
To make a virtual machine run well, a tool called a hypervisor manages the physical server. Many systems share the same hardware. The hypervisor controls how CPU, memory, and storage are shared so each VM runs well.
There are two main types of hypervisors used in different cases. Type 1 hypervisors run right on the hardware. This setup gives better speed and safety for business use. Examples include VMware ESXi and Microsoft Hyper-V.
Type 2 hypervisors run on top of a system. This setup makes them suitable for testing and learning. Examples include Oracle VirtualBox and VMware Workstation.
After the hypervisor is ready, it creates separate spaces for each virtual machine. Each VM runs on its own. One VM can have a problem. Other VMs keep running well. The system can change how much power each VM gets. A VM that needs more can receive more CPU or memory.
How to build a virtual machine?
There are several steps you will need to take to build a virtual machine. You can follow these steps:
- Choose a hypervisor that fits your needs, such as VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V, or KVM.
- Install the hypervisor on a physical server so it can control the system.
- Create a virtual machine and give it CPU, memory, and storage.
- Install a system like Windows or Linux so the VM can run.
- Set up a network so the VM can connect to other systems and the internet.
- Install apps and start running your work inside the VM.
Building the right foundation
As virtual machines are used more, major players like hyperscalers, OTT providers, and telecom companies need a strong base to support their systems. These companies run large workloads across many locations, especially in Southeast Asia, so they need fast and stable connections to keep everything running well.
This need leads many businesses to use dark fiber to get a private and high-speed connection. Hyperscalers manage large data traffic and need low delay between data centers in different countries.
ARNet Infra provides dark fiber across Southeast Asia with a full fiber network. The network covers more than 10,000 km and connects key markets like Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, and also links more than 60 data centers. This kind of network helps major players run virtual machines in a more stable way and scale their systems across the region without big issues. A strong and reliable network base is very important for long-term growth in Southeast Asia.
About the Author
Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet