Deciding between OpenVZ vs KVM is a common argument when it comes to choosing a VPS server. OpenVZ and KVM are the two main virtualization methods employed for creating virtual dedicated servers. Below is a quick look at each of the virtualization technologies, which will help you to make an informed decision.
OpenVZ vs KVM
OpenVZ is a type of container-based virtualization Linux VPS server. Here, each of the containers executes tasks like a standalone server. You can reboot the containers independently and have different processes, memory, files, IP addresses, applications, etc., for each of them. You also get separate configuration files and root access for each of the containers. This ensures high-end performance from the Linux VPS server and less resource requirement for the host.
KVM or Kernel-based Virtual Machine offers full virtualization of the VPS server. It is even possible to run Windows and Linux VPS side by side on the same machine using KVM virtualization. Each of the virtual machines will have dedicated virtualized hardware, such as a separate kernel, disk, network card, etc. As each of the virtual servers will have devoted virtualized hardware, you can run them as a totally independent machine.
The main drawback of OpenVZ is that the kernel modules will be available as the host loads it. Besides, if you miss anything in the virtualization, there may not be an option to enable it later. On the contrary, the main disadvantage of KVM is that it consumes significantly more resources than OpenVZ. Therefore, choosing between OpenVZ vs KVM should be based on your actual needs.
For instance, if you want to run user-space applications in Linux VPS or want better performance with limited resources and minimal overhead, then choosing OpenVZ would be the best option. Yet if you plan to run different operating systems on the VPS and get a more optimized environment like that in a dedicated server, then KVM will be the ideal solution.
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