Description: OpenShift Virtualization allows running virtual machines alongside container applications in OpenShift. This integration provides developers and system administrators the ability to manage both container-based applications and virtual machine workloads from a single platform. OpenShift Virtualization is based on KubeVirt technology, which extends Kubernetes to enable the orchestration of virtual machines. This means users can leverage the benefits of Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) and Platform as a Service (PaaS) in a unified environment. Key features include the ability to dynamically scale virtual machines, resource management through Kubernetes policies, and integration with CI/CD tools. Additionally, OpenShift Virtualization enables organizations to modernize their legacy applications by running them in containers, thus facilitating migration to the cloud and the adoption of cloud-native architectures. This solution is relevant in environments where traditional and modern applications coexist, allowing for a smoother and more efficient transition towards IT infrastructure modernization.
History: OpenShift Virtualization is based on KubeVirt, a project that started in 2018 as an extension of Kubernetes to enable virtual machine management. The integration of KubeVirt into OpenShift was a significant step in providing users with a unified platform that combines container orchestration and virtualization. Since its launch, it has evolved with updates that enhance functionality and usability, reflecting the growing need for hybrid solutions in IT infrastructure.
Uses: OpenShift Virtualization is primarily used in environments where organizations want to run legacy applications alongside modern containerized applications. It allows companies to modernize their infrastructure without the need to completely rewrite their existing applications. It is also used for testing and development, where teams can create testing environments that simulate production, combining both virtual machines and containers.
Examples: An example of using OpenShift Virtualization is in a company that has critical applications running on virtual machines and wants to migrate to a container-based architecture. By using OpenShift Virtualization, they can run both workloads on the same platform, facilitating the transition and allowing for more efficient resource management. Another example is in development environments, where teams can create testing environments that include both containerized applications and virtual machines to simulate production scenarios.
