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Re: [Xen-users] Para-virtualization vs Full-virtualization

To: "dky hax" <dkyhax@xxxxxxxxx>, <xen-users@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: [Xen-users] Para-virtualization vs Full-virtualization
From: "Nick Couchman" <Nick.Couchman@xxxxxxxxx>
Date: Mon, 03 May 2010 12:47:14 -0600
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Short Answer:
- Paravirtualization is done with a modified kernel that is "aware" that it's 
being virtualized.  This yields better performance, but requires either a) an 
open source kernel that the community has modified to support Xen, or b) the 
vendor responsible for the kernel to incorporate Xen support.  Linux, some of 
the BSDs, and Opensolaris support para-virtualization.
- Full Virtualization is done with a hardware emulation tool and 
processor-based virtualization support that allows you to run unmodified guest 
kernels that are not "aware" they are being virtualized.  The result is that 
you give up performance on these platforms.  Windows, NetWare, and most 
closed-source O/Ss require full virtualization.  Many of these guests have PV 
drivers available, though, which allow for devices like disks, network cards, 
etc., to run with improved performance.

-Nick

>>> On 2010/05/03 at 10:00, dky hax <dkyhax@xxxxxxxxx> wrote: 
> Hello guys,
> what are the differences between para-virtualization and full
> virtualization?
> 
> Thanks




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