virtualization
n.n. the process of creating a digital version of something, like a computer or a server, instead of using a physical one. This allows one powerful computer to act like many smaller ones at the same time.
n. the creation of a simulated or virtual version of a computing resource, such as a hardware platform, operating system, or storage device. This process enables multiple isolated environments to run on a single physical host machine.
Server virtualization helps companies save money on hardware.
By using virtualization, the IT department was able to run three different operating systems on the same physical server simultaneously.
The widespread adoption of cloud computing is largely dependent on virtualization, which allows providers to dynamically allocate resources to different clients without needing dedicated physical machines for each.
Derived from the adjective virtual, which traces to the Late Latin virtualis, combined with the suffix -ization to denote a process of conversion. The technical application emerged in the 1960s to describe the abstraction of computer hardware resources.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Often used in technical or business contexts; frequently paired with 'server', 'network', or 'desktop'.
Last updated July 22, 2026