Cloud Virtualisation: The Game-Changer for Remote Work 

What are cloud computing and virtualisation? 

Virtualisation is the process of creating a virtual version of a resource, such as a server, storage device, or operating system. This allows multiple virtual resources to run on a single physical resource, which can increase efficiency, flexibility, and scalability. Virtualisation can be applied to a variety of IT resources, including servers, storage, networks, and applications. 

Cloud computing, on the other hand, is a broader concept that refers to the delivery of on-demand computing services over the internet. These services can include software applications, data storage, and processing power. Cloud computing providers typically use virtualisation as a means of maximising resource utilisation and enabling rapid scalability. 

How they work together? 

In essence, virtualisation is a technology that enables the creation of virtual resources, while cloud computing is a service delivery model that uses virtualisation as a means of providing scalable, on-demand computing services. It allows users to create a virtual network that has the same features and controls as a physical network, but with the added benefits of cloud computing, such as elasticity and scalability. 

Cloud Virtualisation

In general, the term cloud virtualisation or cloud-based virtualisation is a technology that combines the concepts of virtualisation and cloud computing to provide a scalable and flexible solution for deploying and managing virtual machines, virtual desktops, and cloud-native applications. Cloud-based virtualisation uses virtualisation technology to create and manage virtual resources, such as virtual machines and containers, on a cloud infrastructure. 

With cloud-based virtualisation, organisations can easily provision and manage their virtualised resources, scale them up or down as needed, and access them from any device with an internet connection. Cloud-based virtualisation also enables more efficient use of IT resources, as multiple virtual machines or containers can be run on a single physical server or cloud infrastructure, which reduces hardware costs and improves resource utilisation. 

It is a key technology that enables the delivery of cloud-based services and helps organisations to achieve greater agility, flexibility, and scalability in their IT operations. 

Some real-world cases that demonstrate the advantages of cloud-based virtualisation when working remotely and away from the main office:  

Education

With the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools and universities have had to switch to remote learning. Cloud-based virtualisation technology can be used to provide students with access to virtual desktops and applications from any device with an internet connection. This enables students to access their coursework and collaborate with peers and teachers remotely. 

Healthcare

Healthcare providers can use cloud-based virtualisation technology to provide remote consultations and telemedicine services to patients. Doctors and nurses can access virtualised desktops and applications to securely access patient data and clinical applications from any device with an internet connection. 

Manufacturing

Manufacturing companies can use cloud-based virtualisation technology to provide remote access to manufacturing systems and applications. This enables remote workers to access critical data and applications and collaborate with on-site workers to troubleshoot and resolve issues. 

Finance

Financial services companies can use cloud-based virtualisation technology to provide remote access to financial applications and systems. This enables remote workers to securely access data and applications and collaborate with colleagues to process financial transactions and manage client portfolios. 

Customer service

Customer service teams can use cloud-based virtualisation technology to provide remote access to customer service applications and systems. This enables remote workers to access customer data and resolve issues from any device with an internet connection, improving response times and customer satisfaction. 

There are companies that offer cloud-based virtualisation solutions. Such as well-known and reliable tech company Microsoft offers virtualised Windows desktops and applications to users by Windows 365 and Microsoft Azure. Similarly, these two products use the same Azure Virtual Desktop system. Windows 365 uses Azure Virtual Desktop technology to provide a Windows desktop experience from the cloud. Additionally, Azure has more comprehensive cloud-based virtualisation solution including Azure Virtual Machines, Azure Virtual Desktop, and Azure Container Instances.  

Therefore, the choice of a solution will vary depending on the specific requirements and needs of your business. If you want to learn more, feel free to get in touch with one of our cloud specialists at Lucidica where we’ll talk you through your options to find right solution for your needs!