1. Virtualization Layer:
VMware, as a virtualization platform, creates a virtualized environment through the use of a hypervisor. The hypervisor acts as a layer between the physical hardware and the Guest OS. It allocates resources, manages memory, and provides isolation to multiple Guest OS running on the same physical machine.
2. Host Operating System (Host OS):
The Host OS is the operating system installed on the physical machine or server that runs the virtualization platform. It provides the necessary services and resources for the proper functioning of the hypervisor and the virtual machines it manages. The Host OS typically has complete control over the underlying hardware resources.
3. Guest Operating System (Guest OS):
The Guest OS is the operating system installed within a virtual machine. It is essentially an independent and isolated operating system that runs as if it were installed on its own physical hardware. Each Guest OS has its own applications, files, and configurations, independent of the Host OS.
4. Virtual Machine (VM):
A virtual machine is a software emulation of a physical computer system. It includes the Guest OS, its applications, and all the necessary virtualized hardware resources, such as virtual CPU, memory, storage, and network interfaces. Each virtual machine operates as a separate entity, allowing multiple Guest OS to run concurrently on a single physical machine.
5. Communication:
The communication between the Host OS and the Guest OS is managed by the hypervisor. Devices and resources in the Guest OS are virtualized and presented as if they were physical hardware. This enables the Guest OS to interact with these virtual resources provided by the hypervisor, while isolating them from the underlying Host OS and other guest operating systems.
6. Shared Resources:
While Guest OS operate independently, they share certain resources provided by the Host OS, such as network connectivity, storage access, and USB devices. The hypervisor manages the allocation and access to these shared resources to ensure efficient utilization and avoid conflicts between virtual machines.
In summary, the relationship between a Guest OS and the Host OS in VMware is one of virtualization and isolation. The Host OS provides the necessary infrastructure and resources for running virtual machines, while the Guest OS operates as independent and isolated entities within these virtual environments. The hypervisor acts as an intermediary, ensuring seamless communication and resource allocation between the Host OS and the Guest OS.