4.2 Resource Requirements Flashcards
What CPU features improve virtual machine performance?
Modern CPUs with virtualization extensions like Intel VT-x and AMD-V significantly improve performance.
What is SLAT, and why is it important?
Second-Level Address Translation (SLAT) improves virtual memory performance; known as EPT (Intel) or RVI (AMD).
Why are 64-bit processors preferred for virtualization?
They support up to 16 exabytes of RAM and are suitable for hosting multiple virtual machines, unlike 32-bit processors limited to 4 GB.
How does RAM affect virtual machine performance?
More RAM allows the host to run multiple virtual machines efficiently; inadequate RAM leads to performance degradation.
What is the recommended minimum RAM for hosting a virtual machine?
It depends on the host OS: ~4 GB for Windows, ~8 GB for macOS, plus memory for each virtual machine.
How much disk space does a typical Windows virtual machine require?
Approximately 20-50 GB of storage.
How much disk space does a typical Linux virtual machine require?
Approximately 4-8 GB of storage.
Why is adequate storage critical for virtual machines?
Virtual machine images consume significant disk space, limiting the number of VMs on systems with insufficient storage.
How do virtual machines access networking resources?
They share the host’s network interface card (NIC) for connectivity.
What network upgrades improve virtual machine throughput?
Upgrading to Gigabit or 10 Gbps NICs and implementing NIC teaming increases bandwidth.
What is NIC teaming?
Combining multiple network interface cards to increase bandwidth and redundancy for virtualized environments.
Why should virtualization features be enabled in BIOS/UEFI?
To ensure the CPU’s virtualization capabilities are fully utilized for optimal performance.
What type of processor is found in newer Mac systems for virtualization?
ARM processors, which require ARM-compatible guest operating systems.
Why do older NICs limit virtual machine performance?
Older NICs like 100 Mbps have low throughput, restricting bandwidth per virtual machine.
What is the impact of inadequate RAM on virtual machines?
It leads to poor performance, frequent paging, and limits the number of virtual machines that can run simultaneously.
