May 1, 2024
Updated June 4, 2025
22 minute read
Virtual Machines: A Comprehensive Guide
Virtual Machines (VMs) represent a cornerstone of modern computing, enabling individuals and organizations to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single physical machine. At a high level, a VM is essentially a computer file—often called an image—that behaves like an actual computer. It can run in a window as a separate computing environment, often to run a different operating system, or even to function as the user's entire computer experience, as is common on many people's work-supplied laptops. This capability to emulate distinct computer systems provides tremendous flexibility and efficiency in how we utilize hardware resources.
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Find a path to becoming a Virtual Machines. Learn more at:
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Reading list
We've selected 33 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Virtual Machines.
Foundational text in computer science, widely used in undergraduate and graduate programs. It provides a comprehensive overview of operating system principles, including processes, memory management, and virtualization. Understanding these core concepts is essential for grasping how virtual machines function at a fundamental level. It serves as an excellent prerequisite for diving deeper into virtualization technologies.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cloud computing, including chapters on virtual machines. It is written by leading experts in the field and valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about cloud computing.
Kubernetes leading container orchestration platform, often used in conjunction with virtual machines and containers. provides a comprehensive guide to Kubernetes, which is crucial for managing containerized applications at scale. Understanding Kubernetes is vital for anyone working with modern virtualized and cloud-native environments.
Provides a combined look at Docker and Kubernetes, reflecting the contemporary landscape where containers and orchestration are key aspects of virtualization strategies. It's valuable for understanding the broader container ecosystem and its relevance to virtualized deployments in both cloud and on-premises environments.
Focuses on KVM, a popular open-source virtualization technology on Linux. It delves into the internals of KVM and provides guidance on building robust virtualization solutions. It is particularly relevant for those interested in Linux-based virtualization and offers insights into managing scalability, performance, and security within a KVM environment.
An updated edition focusing on a specific version of VMware vSphere, providing practical guidance for deploying, managing, and monitoring virtualized data centers. Useful for professionals working with or planning to implement VMware solutions. It offers insights into designing and planning virtual infrastructure effectively.
Provides a good overview of virtualization techniques and applications from a computer architecture and design perspective. It delves into the fundamental principles behind virtual machines, making it valuable for those seeking a deeper understanding of the technology's underpinnings. While not the most recent publication, it is considered a foundational text in the field.
Provides practical guidance and hands-on labs for Microsoft Hyper-V, another major virtualization platform. It covers implementation and management using both GUI and PowerShell tools. It's a key resource for IT professionals working with Windows Server environments and Hyper-V.
By a Microsoft MVP offers in-depth coverage of Windows Server, including the Hyper-V role. It's a valuable resource for understanding how Hyper-V integrates with the Windows Server ecosystem and for mastering its features. It serves as a comprehensive guide for administrators.
Provides a practical guide to virtualization for IT managers. It covers all aspects of virtualization, from planning and implementation to management and security. It valuable resource for anyone who is responsible for managing virtualized environments.
Provides a guide to virtualization for developers. It covers all aspects of virtualization, from the basics to more advanced topics. It valuable resource for anyone who is developing software for virtualized environments.
Provides a manager's guide to virtualization. It covers all aspects of virtualization, from planning and implementation to management and security. It valuable resource for anyone who is responsible for managing virtualized environments.
This cookbook offers practical recipes and step-by-step instructions for configuring and managing VMware vSphere 6.7. It's a useful resource for gaining hands-on experience with specific vSphere tasks, including storage, networking, and high availability. While focused on a specific version, the recipes illustrate common virtualization concepts and practices applicable to VMware environments.
Takes a deep dive into the design and implementation of virtual machine architectures. It combines high-level design with low-level implementation details and covers advanced topics often overlooked. It's suitable for graduate students and professionals interested in the intricate workings of VMs.
Provides a practical guide to virtualization for businesses. It covers all aspects of virtualization, from the basics to more advanced topics. It valuable resource for anyone who is considering using virtualization in their business.
Covers the administration of the latest Windows Server, including its virtualization capabilities with Hyper-V. It's a relevant resource for understanding the current state of Microsoft's server virtualization offering and its management.
Similar to the VMware cookbook, this book provides practical recipes for working with KVM virtualization. It's a valuable resource for hands-on learning and quickly implementing common KVM tasks. It complements theoretical understanding with practical application, making it suitable for administrators and engineers.
Provides a practical guide to virtual machines. It covers all aspects of virtual machines, from installation and configuration to management and troubleshooting. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about virtual machines.
Beyond server virtualization, network virtualization critical component of modern virtualized data centers and cloud environments. dives into the concepts and technologies behind virtualizing networks, which is essential for creating flexible and scalable virtual machine deployments.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/topic/oabr25/virtual
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