Understanding Risks in Virtualized Networks

Understanding Risks in Virtualized Networks Student’s Name Institution Date Introduction Most organizations today have started moving towards virtualizing their data center infrastructure and servers due to the numerous benefits of virtualization. Virtualization involves using a virtual version of resources such as computer platforms that can be utilized in various applications (Lim et al., 2012). For any enterprise, virtualized machines reduce downtime since data can be migrated with minimal interruption. Virtualization increases security, is highly cost friendly for enterprises and also saves time. Initially, companies that did not apply virtualization suffered numerous issues due to the limitations of x86 servers (Kusnetzky, 2011). The results have been huge inefficiencies and excessive operating costs. The paper will focus on highlighting the benefits and challenges involved in the use of virtualization. The paper will also analyze the risks associated to virtualization and the best practices involved in management of these threats. Advantages and disadvantages of virtualization Advantages Disadvantages Virtualization is cost efficient as it decreases operating expenditures and IT costs. The organization does not need to purchase numerous types of computer hardware to install the virtualized system. An enterprise only needs to invest in a single most server whereby many transactions can be conducted through these virtual machines. Also, there is a considerable decrease in employee workload since the virtualized system will do most of the tasks. This positively affects the utility expenses of the organization (Kusnetzky, 2011). Virtualization is an expensive investment for an organization. A virtual server requires an initial investment that is expensive compared to a conventional server. Without the necessary funds, an organization may lack the ability to upgrade their system (Van Der Lans, 2012). Through virtualization, an organization can use many applications on one server instead of multiple servers. Unlike typical computer network infrastructures that do not facilitate such a set-up, virtual computers can run on several servers in a single host (Van Der Lans, 2012). This prevents instances of downtime since workload can be spread on unused servers. A virtualized system might not be compatible with other applications and servers. This possibility can be a huge problem especially once the investment has been made on numerous servers or if the applications utilized in running the business are not upgraded to the versions that allow virtualization. In the virtual platform, data recovery is faster and cost-efficient. With the use of a virtual backup, the damaged or corrupted file systems can be deleted quickly and restored fast. Virtualization is highly dependent on memory and processing power. Without factoring in the need for these components, the virtualization strategy of the company may fail fast (Van Der Lans, 2012). Additionally, when the enterprise does not invest on training the current staff on virtualization, they may not have the necessary skills in administering a virtual network. Risks and attacks associated with the use of virtualization When a company uses virtualization, visibility is almost absent especially inside virtual systems being used by the company for communications between virtual machines. This is problematic especially when executing security policies as traffic flowing through virtual networks may be hid...