If you have heard of or even used VMware, then you should already know what virtualization is. Here is an explanation of virtualization from VMware.

In essence, virtualization lets you transform hardware into software. Use software such as VMware ESX Server to transform or “virtualize” the hardware resources of an x86-based computer-including the CPU, RAM, hard disk and network controller-to create a fully functional virtual machine that can run its own operating system and applications just like a “real” computer.

Generally speaking, it is to run an operating system on another operating system using the same hardware. For example, you can run a Linux operating system on top of your Windows XP inside your laptop computer. This allows you to use multiple operating systems at the same time using the same computer. All of them will be sharing the same resources.

VMware is one of the most popular virtualization software in the market. You can download VMware Server for free and register for a free serial number from its official website. There is another virtualization software called VirtualBox from Innotek. It is an open source software and it functions very much the same as VMware. (I am using VirtualBox on my Linux laptop.)

Virtualization helps me to provide quick support for different operating systems. When a customer calls me about Windows XP, I can quickly fires up my Windows XP virtual machine and provide assistance that is specific to Windows XP. When the next customer calls about Windows Vista, I can quickly switch to my Windows Vista virtual machine and provide the support specific to Windows Vista. It is one of the most useful tools that helps me do better in my computer business.