Description: The term ‘bare-metal’ refers to a physical server that operates without any operating system or virtualization layer. In this context, ‘bare-metal’ implies that the hardware is fully exposed and available for direct use, allowing system administrators and developers to have complete control over the server’s resources. This setup is particularly valued in environments where high performance and efficiency are required, as it eliminates the overhead that an operating system or virtualization layer can introduce. Bare-metal servers are ideal for resource-intensive applications, such as databases, high-performance applications, and critical workloads. Additionally, by operating directly on the hardware, specific configurations can be optimized to maximize performance and security. In the virtualization realm, the term is also used to describe the installation of virtualization software directly on the hardware, allowing the creation of virtual machines that can operate more efficiently than in traditional virtualized environments. In summary, ‘bare-metal’ represents a robust and efficient option for those looking to maximize performance and control over their IT infrastructures.