Virtualization Concepts
What is a virtual machine?
A software-based computer that runs inside another computer.
Test Focus: Used for isolation, testing, and servers.
What is CPU allocation?
Definition: Assigning portions of processor resources to virtual machines.
Test Focus: Often called “virtual CPUs” or vCPUs.
What is SaaS?
Definition: SaaS (Software as a Service); Cloud-hosted applications delivered/accessed through a browser.
Test Focus: Examples include Gmail, Salesforce, and Office 365.
What is a VPN?
Definition: VPN (Virtual Private Network) - An encrypted tunnel for secure communication over public networks.
Test Focus: Common exam phrase: protects data over public Wi-Fi.
What is a snapshot?
Definition: A saved state of a VM at one moment in time.
Test Focus: Used for quick rollback before updates or tests.
What is RAM allocation?
Definition: The amount of system memory assigned to each VM.
Test Focus: Too many VMs can cause memory overcommitment.
What is PaaS?
Definition: PaaS (Platform as a Service) - A cloud environment where developers build and deploy applications.
Test Focus: No server maintenance needed—platform handled by the provider.
What is remote access?
Definition: Connecting to a computer or network from another location.
Test Focus: Often associated with help desk and admin workflows.
What is a clone?
Definition: A full copy of a VM used to launch identical instances quickly.
Test Focus: Often described as “rapid deployment from a template.”
What is storage provisioning?
Definition: Allocating disk space to virtual machines.
Test Focus: Know thin vs. thick provisioning for CompTIA.
What is IaaS?
Definition: IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) -Renting cloud-based servers, storage, and networking.
Test Focus: You manage the operating system over virtual hardware.
What is a gateway?
Definition: A device that routes traffic from a local network to external networks.
Test Focus: Usually the router; the default gateway IP is key.
What is a hypervisor?
Definition: Software that creates and manages virtual machines.
Test Focus: Type 1 = bare-metal; Type 2 = runs on a host OS.
What is a virtual switch?
Definition: A software-based network switch that connects VMs within a host.
Test Focus: Allows VM-to-VM communication without physical cabling.
What is a public cloud?
Definition: Cloud services available to many customers on shared hardware.
Test Focus: Scalable and cost-effective but multi-tenant.
What is DNS?
Definition: DNS (Domain Name System) - A system that converts domain names into IP addresses.
Test Focus: “Resolves hostnames to IPs” is the phrase used by CompTIA.
What is a container?
Definition: A lightweight isolated environment that shares the host OS kernel.
Test Focus: Runs apps separately without requiring full VMs.
What is a thin client?
Definition: A low-power workstation that relies on a server for processing.
Test Focus: Minimal local storage and lightweight computing needs.
What is a private cloud?
Definition: A cloud environment dedicated to one organization.
Test Focus: Offers stronger security and control; may be on-prem or hosted.
What is DHCP?
Definition: DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) - A service that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices.
Test Focus: Reduces configuration errors; assigns leases automatically.