CompTIA Cloud+ Practice Test

In a traditional virtualized data center, how do VMs on the same host communicate?

1. Virtual NIC

2. Region

3. Virtual switch

4. LAN

The correct answer is: Virtual switch

In a traditional virtualized data center, communication between Virtual Machines (VMs) that reside on the same host typically occurs through a virtual switch. A virtual switch operates similarly to a physical network switch, facilitating the transfer of data packets among VMs hosted on the same physical server. It manages network traffic within the host, allowing VMs to send and receive data between each other without needing to go out to the external network. Using a virtual switch is important because it provides isolation and control over network traffic and can implement features such as VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) for enhanced segmentation. This helps maintain efficient communication and security between VMs while optimizing the use of network resources. While a virtual NIC (Network Interface Card) is a component that allows each VM to connect to the network, it is the virtual switch that actually manages the communication between VMs. Regions and LANs refer to broader networking concepts and do not specifically address how VMs communicate within a single host. Thus, the virtual switch is the critical element facilitating intra-host VM communication in a virtualized data center environment.