Virtualisation and virtual machines for beginners
In short: Virtualisation lets one physical computer run several virtual computers (VMs), each with its own operating system. It powers the cloud and is the easiest way to build a safe practice lab.
The simple idea
A virtual machine (VM) is a computer made of software. A program called a hypervisor shares one physical machine's processor, memory and storage between several VMs, and each one thinks it's a real computer.
Two types of hypervisor
| Type | Runs on | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 ("bare metal") | Directly on the server hardware | Data centres and the cloud |
| Type 2 ("hosted") | As an app on your normal operating system | Laptops, learning and testing (for example VirtualBox) |
Why it's so useful
- Save money and space: one server can do the work of many.
- Snapshots: save a VM's state and roll back if something breaks.
- Isolation: a problem in one VM doesn't affect the others.
- Speed: create a new server in minutes instead of ordering hardware.
Virtual machines vs containers
Containers are lighter. They share the host's operating system kernel and package just an app and what it needs. VMs include a whole operating system. Both are used widely; containers are popular for modern apps.
Build your own practice lab
- Install a free type 2 hypervisor on your computer.
- Create a Linux VM and a Windows evaluation VM.
- Connect them on an internal virtual network and practise ping, file sharing and firewall rules.
- Take a snapshot before each experiment so mistakes cost nothing.
Real-world example: three old servers become one
A small office has three ageing server boxes humming in a cupboard: one for files, one for the accounts software and one for the door-entry system. Each sits mostly idle, uses electricity and needs its own repairs.
The IT supporter buys one modern server, installs a type 1 hypervisor, and moves each old server across as a virtual machine. The cupboard is now quieter and cooler, and there is one box to look after instead of three.
A month later, an accounts software update goes wrong and the program will not start. Because a snapshot was taken just before the update, the VM is rolled back in a few minutes and staff carry on working. The file server and door-entry VMs were never affected, because each VM is isolated from the others.
Try this: on a Windows PC, open Task Manager, go to Performance and select CPU. Look for "Virtualization: Enabled". If it says disabled, it can usually be switched on in the computer's firmware settings before you build a home lab.
Key takeaways
- A VM is a software computer running on real hardware.
- Hypervisors share hardware between VMs.
- Snapshots make experiments safe.
- A VM lab is the cheapest way to practise.
Original content written by Mohamed Fayas for FM TecHub. © 2026 FM TecHub. You're welcome to share a link to this page; please don't copy the text elsewhere without permission.