Description: KVM storage (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) refers to storage solutions used for virtual machines operating under KVM technology, a module of the Linux kernel that enables virtualization. This type of storage is crucial for efficiently managing the resources of virtual machines, allowing multiple operating systems to run simultaneously on a single physical hardware. KVM storage solutions can include virtual hard disks, network storage, and distributed file systems, facilitating the allocation and access to data for virtual machines. Additionally, KVM storage is highly configurable, allowing administrators to adjust performance and capacity according to the specific needs of applications and workloads. Integration with technologies like QEMU, which acts as an emulator and virtualizer, allows for more robust and flexible storage management, optimizing resource use and improving operational efficiency in virtualized environments.
History: KVM was introduced in 2006 as part of the Linux kernel, allowing users to run multiple operating systems on a single physical server. Since its inception, it has evolved significantly, integrating with other virtualization and storage technologies. The combination of KVM with QEMU has enabled advancements in hardware virtualization, facilitating the creation and management of virtual machines more efficiently.
Uses: KVM storage is primarily used in virtualization environments to manage virtual machine data, optimizing performance and storage capacity. It is common in data centers, where high availability and scalability are required. It is also used in development and testing environments, allowing developers to create and manage multiple testing environments without the need for additional hardware.
Examples: An example of KVM storage is the use of LVM (Logical Volume Manager) to manage virtual disks in a KVM environment, allowing the creation of logical volumes that can be resized and managed flexibly. Another example is the implementation of network storage (NAS) to provide shared access to data among multiple virtual machines.
