If your business is into high-performance computing, you may come across two essential terms: KVM–based virtual machines and bare metal servers. What’s the difference and which one should you choose? This information is directly related to ensuring efficiency, cost, scalability, and most importantly the performance of your operations. This blog will cover a comprehensive comparison of KVM vs Bare Metal performance.
Well, another important factor in this performance comparison is the nature of workloads. Virtualization with KVM can handle a wide range of tasks without requiring dedicated hardware. On the other hand, bare metal servers are preferred for large-scale databases or high-traffic websites i.e. those that require maximum performance for resource-intensive applications.
For extensive clarity between the two from different angles, we will cover the meaning, different features, benefits, and working. We will also cover the terms related to bare metal servers. Moreover, this blog will include a table of differences and different factors to help you choose one.
Kernel-based Virtual Machine (KVM)
KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) is a virtualization technology. Let us discuss it further –
What is KVM?
KVM is an open-source virtualization solution. It is a hypervisor and its function is to create separate virtual environments called virtual machines (VMs) on physical Linux servers. Each virtual machine acts as an independent computer and they share the resources (CPU, memory, and storage) of that physical server.
Thus, KVM uses the advanced capabilities of modern processors to run various operating systems and applications simultaneously on a single server. This capability boosts resource utilization and reduces hardware costs.
KVM is built into Linux. Basically, it transforms Linux into a hypervisor and provides the ability to create and manage VMs efficiently. It has developed a lot since its integration into the Linux kernel. Also, it keeps on benefitting from ongoing enhancements in the Linux ecosystem.
Features of KVM
Security
KVM uses Security-Enhanced Linux (SELinux) alongside secure virtualization (sVirt) for the best security. They form robust security boundaries around each virtual machine so the risk of unauthorized access is minimized. It further ensures data privacy.
Storage Flexibility
It supports various storage options such as local disks and network-attached storage (NAS). Features like thin provisioning optimizes resource allocation by dynamically allocating the storage as per the actual usage.
Hardware Compatibility
Due to the compatibility with a wide range of Linux-supported hardware, it can enable easy adoption of new technologies. The hardware vendors continuously contribute to kernel improvements.
Memory Management
KVM takes advantage of Linux’s advanced memory management capabilities. It supports various features. For example, kernel same-page merging optimizes memory usage across virtual machines.
Live Migration
With its live migration capabilities, you can move running VMs between physical hosts without downtime. It also maintains the service availability during maintenance or upgrades.
Performance and Scalability
KVM can handle high-demand applications efficiently and virtualize even the most resource-intensive workloads with Linux’s performance features. Also, It can scale easily according to your business demand.
Resource Control
It can give complete control over resource allocation. For instance, you can prioritize certain VMs to ensure they receive the necessary resources for optimal performance.
Lower Latency
KVM enables applications to run with lower latency. Thus, it is suitable for real-time applications running. The Linux kernel’s real-time capabilities help in managing tasks effectively.
Benefits of KVM
KVM’s meaning and features lay out a complete understanding. Let us now summarise ‘what is KVM’ in terms of its benefits after that –
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High Performance
KVM delivers high performance for demanding applications. It enables virtualization to occur close to the server hardware and efficiently allocates the physical server resources.
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Cost Efficiency
It is free and open source so it does not have licensing costs associated with proprietary virtualization solutions.
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Flexibility
The flexibility is great in hardware configuration. You can easily allocate resources according to the specific needs of each VM.
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Stability
The years of support from the open-source community have enabled a stable foundation for enterprise applications with KVM.
How does KVM work?
The below points explain how KVM works –
- It converts Linux into a type-1 hypervisor so it can create and manage virtual machines.
- KVM requires a Linux kernel installed on hardware with virtualization support that is mostly found in modern x86 CPUs. The installation process involves loading the KVM kernel module for the necessary infrastructure for virtualization.
- You can create and manage virtual machines after that. Advanced tools such as libvirt or virt-manager are available for the same.
- KVM uses QEMU (Quick Emulator) for hardware components so that virtual machines can smoothly interact with the virtualized environment.
- Moreover, every virtual machine functions as a standard Linux process. They have dedicated virtual hardware resources such as CPU, memory, and storage. KVM allocates them among virtual machines so that each one operates independently and securely without interference.
Bare Metal Server
Bare metal servers are one of the most powerful server solutions. Let us discuss them in detail –
What is a Bare Metal Server?
A bare metal server is a physical server to which a single client has complete access and control. Without a virtualization layer like a hypervisor, it ensures that all processing power and memory are available for that single user’s applications.
Thus, you have complete control to customize the server for OS, hardware, etc as per your unique requirements.
Features of Bare Metal Servers
Direct Physical Hardware Access
This feature offers maximum performance without the overhead of virtualization and direct access to the resources.
Reliability
There is no risk of resource contention among multiple users. Thus, they ensure great stability and reliability compared to virtualized environments.
Security
The lack of a virtualization layer improves security due to fewer vulnerabilities. This is because you have complete control over the server and its environment, reducing vulnerabilities.
Reduced Latency
They are suitable for applications that need real-time performance because they minimize latency due to direct access to hardware.
High Scalability
These server solutions can meet the needs of growing businesses as they can be scaled up easily by adding more servers or upgrading existing hardware.
Benefits of Bare Metal Servers
Below are the benefits of using bare metal on top of the features –
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Superior Performance
Bare metal servers offer unmatched performance compared to virtualized solutions as all hardware resources are allocated to a single user. Thus, it makes them ideal for resource-intensive applications.
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Full Customization and Control
You can make precise configurations and optimizations as you have complete control over the server environment.
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Cost Predictability
Businesses can predict costs with fixed hardware resources better than in dynamic virtualized environments.
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Stability
The absence of a hypervisor reduces potential points of failure. This way, bare metal servers can give a stable and reliable environment.
Important Bare Metal Terms
The below key bare metal server terms can clarify the related functionalities –
- Bare Metal – As discussed, it is a physical server dedicated to a single user without virtualization.
- Virtualization – It is the process of creating virtual machines on a server using software layers.
- Hypervisors – It is the software layer that creates and manages virtual machines. (bare metal servers do not have a hypervisor).
- Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) – It refers to a cloud service model that delivers virtualized computing resources. It can offer great flexibility and scalability.
How does Bare Metal work?
As discussed in the meaning, bare metal servers are dedicated physical servers for a single user. It operates in the following way –
- All processing power, memory, and storage are available to the user so it can deliver optimal performance for your applications.
- You get full access to the server’s hardware to install your preferred operating system, applications, and configurations. Thus, you can customize the server to meet specific workload requirements. This customization also includes selecting the right CPU, memory, storage, and networking options. You can get maximum efficiency and performance as you can install the software and configurations that best align with their operational needs.
- Bare metal server management happens mostly through a dedicated interface. You can easily monitor performance, apply updates, and make configuration changes as needed. This direct management can help you maintain control over their environment and quickly scale as per the changing business demands.
How do I optimize my bare metal server for performance and security?
You can optimize a bare metal server for performance and security easily. It requires hardware and software strategies both. Below are the practices that can maximize their server’s capabilities –
- Regular hardware upgrades and checks for CPU, memory, and storage components for maximum performance
- Network optimization with high-speed network connections and optimizing network configurations to reduce latency and improve data transfer rates.
- Monitoring tools help track performance metrics and identify hindrances that may affect server efficiency.
- Security measures like firewall installations, intrusion detection systems, and regular security patches ensure that the server remains protected from vulnerabilities.
- Backup solutions for data integrity and quick recovery in case of failures.
- Resource management with efficient allocation as per the workload demands. This can optimize performance and prevent resource contention.
- Operating system optimization improves performance as it reduces unnecessary processes and services.
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) offer the best security by encrypting data transmitted to and from the server.
KVM vs. Bare Metal Performance – The Comparison
Let us check how KVM and bare metal servers differ in terms of performance factors –
| Feature | KVM Performance | Bare Metal Performance |
| Resource Allocation | It creates and manages multiple virtual machines and shares resources among them. | It provides dedicated server resources for a single user. |
| Overhead | Minimal virtualization overhead occurs. | Bare metal servers do not experience any overhead. |
| Customization | The control and customization are limited to VM configurations. | They offer fully customizable hardware and software. |
| Latency | Virtualization can result in a slightly higher latency than bare metal servers. | Direct hardware access lowers the latency. |
| Scalability | Resource pooling features make it highly scalable. | They are scalable by adding or upgrading servers |
| Security | It offers great security features with SELinux but relies on a hypervisor. Thus, it offers improved isolation but risks exist. | The dedicated server offers higher security with direct control. |
| Cost | It is cost-effective because of its open-source nature. | It has dedicated hardware so it mostly has higher costs. |
| Ideal Use Case | KVM is the best for workloads that require flexibility. | They are ideal for high-performance and resource-intensive applications. |
Factors to Choose Between KVM and Bare Metal Performance
So, which server type or technology will you choose for your application? The choice between virtualization with KVM vs bare metal performance depends on the below factors –
- Resource Needs
KVM is ideal if your applications can function efficiently in a server that shares resources efficiently among virtual machines. It provides great performance and scalability for moderate resource needs. On the other hand, bare metal suits resource-intensive needs with high processing power and memory.
- Budget Constraints
KVM is an affordable solution, whereas bare metal is more expensive due to its dedicated resources.
- Performance Priorities
Bare metal provides direct hardware access for applications needing minimal latency. However, KVM may introduce slight delays.
- Flexibility Requirements
KVM offers a more flexible environment and businesses can meet frequent configuration changes. But, bare metal servers offer complete control and customization for advanced application needs.
- Security Standards
Bare metal servers provide isolated environments that reduce external access points. It can meet stringent data security needs.
Cantech’s KVM and Bare Metal Servers
Cantech offers the most advanced technology and solutions. These include KVM and bare metal servers too. We tailor our plans for your high performance, reliability, and flexibility needs. Both these hosting options have various features to enhance your user experience, optimize costs, and provide excellent resource management.
Cantech’s KVM and affordable bare metal servers scale easily to accommodate growing workloads. We guarantee reliable performance with 99.97% uptime and robust hardware configurations. Businesses can choose from a variety of configurations to best suit their specific requirements. Both KVM and bare metal servers at Cantech come with security features to protect data and the platform. Cantech provides 24/7 dedicated support to help users optimize their server performance and resolve issues promptly.
Conclusion
When comparing KVM vs Bare Metal performance, you must keep your specific needs first. KVM provides a flexible solution with efficient resource allocation for diverse workload requirements. Whereas, bare metal servers deliver top-notch performance and customization capabilities for resource-intensive applications. Your specific demands decide which technology is suitable to give you high performance, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Cantech offers diverse solutions with advanced technology to meet any specific requirements. Contact and discuss to get the best plan!
FAQ
What is a Linux Kernel?
The core component of the Linux operating system is called Linux Kernel. It manages hardware resources and provides essential services for software applications. The kernel enables communication between hardware and software. Overall, it is a crucial part of the Linux ecosystem.
Why is KVM important?
It is a modern technology that allows the efficient running of multiple virtual machines on a single physical server with the best resource optimization. KVM is a vital technology for modern data centers and cloud environments.
Moreover, any Linux device can become a bare-metal hypervisor. So, you do not need additional hardware, and it is for multiple required operating systems. KVM deploys many VMS in the cloud and does not need any manual provisioning of the virtual environment.
As it is a part of Linux, it has all the features that Linux has. It is the most preferred hypervisor for enterprises.
What is the difference between KVM and Hyper-V?
KVM is an open-source virtualization technology built into Linux. It offers great flexibility and cost-effectiveness. On the other hand, Hyper-V is a proprietary hypervisor from Microsoft. It provides robust integration with Windows environments.
Can I run Windows on KVM?
Yes, KVM supports running Windows as a guest operating system. It can create Windows VMs on KVM servers and provide great flexibility and resource management features.
When should I choose bare metal servers over virtual servers?
Bare metal servers are an ideal option when your applications require maximum performance, direct hardware access, and stability. They are ideal for high-demand workloads that need dedicated resources without any overhead or virtualization layers.
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