When having to choose between KVM and OpenVZ virtualization technologies, we need to take into consideration our VPS needs, so we can make an informed decision because both are good. Depending on the purpose of the applications that run on the service and the need for flexibility that is involved in managing the virtual server, one can be more suitable than the other.
KVM
Virtual kernel-based machines or KVM is a virtualization technology for the Linux kernel. KVM allows multiple virtual servers to run using unmodified Linux or Windows images.
Regarding KVM virtualization, you can purchase a virtual server that behaves exactly like a dedicated server so that you can achieve the benefits of a dedicated server at lower costs.
In the same time, you will have complete control over the isolated environment and the software. Unlike OpenVZ, KVM does not allow the temporary loan of resources, because it has completely isolated dedicated resources.
The main features of KWM are:
– It allows the virtualization of any operating system (Linux, Windows, etc.)
– NFS native support
– Allows the creation of swap partitions
– The system can run in desktop mode
– Enables the configuration of a VPN server
– The resources are dedicated
OpenVZ
OpenVZ is a virtualization technology based on the Linux container. This virtualization technology allows the creation of secure and private Linux containers on a single physical server. By using containers instead of multiple apps on a single server, you can better utilize the server resources, and at the same time, you remove the possibility of software conflicts between processes.
Each of the containers behaves like a normal dedicated server with a dedicated IP address, independent files, independent reset, users, applications, and processes.
OpenVZ main features:
– Provides a smaller resource consumption from the OS and reduced costs
– All containers share the same architecture and kernel version
– You can allocate resources equally on virtual servers that have identical features
– Migration is possible with an active virtual server without any interruption of service
– Upgrade resources without having to restart the operating system
– Allocate RAM fast in case you have overrun the allocated resources
– Pre-installed OSs
– Online backups
If a KVM is a virtualization infrastructure where the VPS operates independently of the host node, as an independent server, OpenVZ is container-based virtualization and depends on the physical host server, with all containers sharing the same architecture and kernel version.
The main difference between KVM and OpenVZ is that with OpenVZ virtualization you can only install Linux systems, while on the other hand, with KVM you can install Linux, Windows and also supports custom OS options.
Therefore, the technologies are different in structure and are suitable for the applications and technical specifications involved. If you need to deploy apps fast and there is no security risk involved between apps, OpenVZ is better for you. If you need total security with a slower deployment time, but complete isolation between servers, KVM is explicitly designed with isolation and privacy in mind.