Cloud computing with virtualization could mean serious advantages for government agencies. Server virtualization offers immense benefits to organizations seeking to consolidate data and cut down on physical equipment and maintenance costs. It also offers flexibility in data storage and analysis. Similarly, the cloud is useful in the storage of data and automation of services for end users. Despite the similarities between the two, they are separate processes that, when combined, can offer enhanced benefits to users.
Maximize resources and cut even more costs
One important advantage of both virtualization and cloud computing alike is that they cut down on the need for physical servers and by doing so reduce maintenance and support costs. With the cloud, the inherent benefits of virtualization are compounded due to the cloud’s ability to optimize capacity based on agency needs. According to CIO.com contributor Simon Withers, it is easier to expand the capacity of the cloud platform instead of spending resources creating a new virtualized server. If more computing power is necessary, agencies can work within the cloud infrastructure to meet those increased needs.
Streamline processes
According to Data Center Knowledge, government agencies have long realized the benefits of virtualization and have also recently become aware of how it can enhance cloud environments to be able to better deliver data and services to end users. Using virtualization to achieve these goals is helping agencies to gain greater control over the data delivered.
Virtualization and the cloud can also work together when balancing workload. If an agency anticipates heavy activity within the data center, instead of creating another virtualized server, a simple call to the cloud service provider can increase capacity and ease data transfer concerns.
Be secure and stay compliant
When used together, cloud computing and virtualization also offer a greater level of security to organizations. Data Center Knowledge noted that the cloud platform can be stored at the government data center level, where it can be “locked down” through the use of a stored image – this image can only be changed with the permission of administrators possessing the proper authorizations. End users will receive this image when working within the cloud and their changes will not be saved.
This “golden image” helps agencies remain compliant as well. The use of these technologies can be influential in easier and faster management of the delivery of data and services, because this allows users to remain agile and efficient.