AMD speeds up virtualisation

AMD has revised its input/output (I/O) virtualisation specification to offer higher storage transmission speeds for virtual operating systems.

The technology works with the AMD Virtualisation Technology Specification (VTS) which provides hardware-based virtualisation acceleration. Formerly known by its 'Pacifica' codename, the technology is embedded in all AMD processors.

Running I/O transactions through a virtualisation platform adds complexity and overheads to a system. Accelerating such transmissions in hardware cuts down on the overheads.

The I/O VTS revision 1.2 also provides better security for virtual systems running on corporate networks, allowing users to control the devices that a virtual operating system can access.

Such control is currently handled by software which blocks access to certain ranges of memory. AMD is proposing to run it in hardware instead.

Controlling access to memory works for certain types of devices, Margaret Lewis, director of commercial solutions at AMD, told www.vnunet.com.

"But when you get to devices that have their own DRam, the IO/VTS specification really comes into play," she said.

For users to benefit, virtualisation vendors such as SWSoft, VMware and XenSource have to build in support for the technology into their products.

AMD has also made the technology available through its Torrenza initiative that allows third-party chip makers to develop so-called co-processors that accelerate specific processes.