Advances in Virtualization Technologies for Modern Advanced Computing Systems

Abstract

Virtualization technologies have emerged as critical components in modern computing systems, reshaping the architecture and operation of cloud computing, data centers, edge computing, and other advanced infrastructures. By abstracting physical resources, virtualization allows multiple operating systems and applications to run on a single physical server, enabling enhanced efficiency, scalability, and flexibility across distributed environments. This abstraction of hardware provides substantial benefits, including improved resource utilization, cost savings, and dynamic allocation of computing resources. These technologies have been instrumental in enabling cloud service models such as Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS), which have become cornerstones of modern IT systems. The continuous evolution of virtualization has introduced key innovations such as containerization, hypervisors, and serverless computing, which further optimize performance and reduce overhead costs. However, alongside these innovations come challenges related to performance degradation, security vulnerabilities, and resource allocation. The growing complexity of modern virtualized environments requires efficient management strategies to ensure optimal system performance and security. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the advances in virtualization technologies, focusing on their role in hardware abstraction, resource optimization, and security enhancements. It discusses recent trends, including the impact of edge computing, serverless architectures, and the growing importance of sustainability in virtualized infrastructures. Additionally, three comparative tables are presented, offering insights into different virtualization platforms, features, and the corresponding impacts on system performance and security.