Virtual Machine Databases
Virtual Machine Databases are database systems that run within virtual machines (VMs) on cloud or on-premises infrastructure, providing isolated, scalable, and portable database environments. They leverage virtualization technology to abstract hardware resources, allowing for flexible deployment, management, and migration of database instances. This approach enables organizations to run traditional or specialized database software in a virtualized context, often with benefits like improved resource utilization, easier backups, and simplified disaster recovery.
Developers should learn about Virtual Machine Databases when deploying databases in cloud environments (e.g., AWS EC2, Azure VMs, Google Compute Engine) or virtualized data centers, as they offer control over the database stack, customization options, and compatibility with legacy applications. They are particularly useful for scenarios requiring specific database versions, custom configurations, or hybrid cloud setups, such as running Oracle Database, SQL Server, or PostgreSQL in a VM for enterprise workloads. However, they require more management overhead compared to managed database services, making them suitable for teams with dedicated database administration skills.