IT Operations.com

virtual switch (vSwitch)

By Alexander S. Gillis

What is a virtual switch (vSwitch)?

A virtual switch (vSwitch) is a software program that enables one virtual machine (VM) to communicate with another. Virtual switches are also used to establish connections between virtual and physical networks and to carry a VM's traffic to other VMs or a physical network.

It is the relationship between virtual switches, VMs and physical network adapters that enables VMs to access and operate on Ethernet networks. Virtual switches ensure nearly the same functions as regular switches -- with the exception of some advanced functionalities that appear in physical switches, like the ability to create network loops.

Just like its counterpart, the physical Ethernet switch, a virtual switch does more than just forward data packets. It can intelligently direct communication on a network by inspecting packets before passing them on. Some vendors embed virtual switches into their virtualization software, but a virtual switch can also be included in a server's hardware as part of its firmware.

How does a virtual switch work?

Virtual switches connect to VMs in a similar way as physical switches. VMs use virtual switches and virtual network adapters to connect to physical networks. A virtual switch also connects to a network interface card in order to connect to a physical network.

A virtual switch detects which VMs are logically connected to its virtual ports and forwards network traffic to the VM. The virtual switch directs data on a network by checking data packets before moving the packet's destination.

Virtual switches reduce the complexity of network configurations by decreasing the number of physical switches that would otherwise need to be managed. With additional network and security settings, these switches also provide integrity for VMs.

Uses for virtual switches

Virtual switches are used for various reasons, but are typically used for ensuring a connection between VMs or connecting virtual and physical networks. Virtual switches can also be used to ensure the integrity of a VM's profile -- including its network and security settings -- as the VM is migrated across physical hosts on the network.

The following virtual switches have different stated use cases:

Advantages of using a virtual switch

Virtual switches offer the following advantages:

Types of virtual switches

There are numerous types of virtual switches, including the following:

Learn more about both physical and virtual switches as well as how they both work while configuring them with VMs.

10 Jun 2022

All Rights Reserved, Copyright 2016 - 2024, TechTarget | Read our Privacy Statement