Data Sheet

Technologies
54 Datasheet, Volume 1 of 2
3 Technologies
This chapter provides a high-level description of Intel technologies implemented in the
processor.
The implementation of the features may vary between the processor SKUs.
Details on the different technologies of Intel processors and other relevant external
notes are located at the Intel technology web site: http://www.intel.com/technology/
3.1 Intel
®
Virtualization Technology (Intel
®
VT)
Intel
®
Virtualization Technology (Intel
®
VT) makes a single system appear as multiple
independent systems to software. This allows multiple, independent operating systems
to run simultaneously on a single system. Intel VT comprises technology components
to support virtualization of platforms based on Intel architecture microprocessors and
chipsets.
Intel
Virtualization Technology (Intel VT) for IA-32, Intel 64 and Intel Architecture (Intel
VT-x) added hardware support in the processor to improve the virtualization
performance and robustness. Intel
Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (Intel VT-
d) extends Intel VT-x by adding hardware assisted support to improve I/O device
virtualization performance.
Intel
VT-x specifications and functional descriptions are included in the Intel 64 and IA-
32 Architectures Software Developer’s Manual, Volume 3. Available at:
http://www.intel.com/products/processor/manuals/index.htm
The Intel VT-d specification and other VT documents can be referenced at:
http://www.intel.com/technology/virtualization/index.htm
https://sharedspaces.intel.com/sites/PCDC/SitePages/Ingredients/
ingredient.aspx?ing=VT
3.1.1 Intel
®
Virtualization Technology (Intel
®
VT) for IA-32,
Intel
®
64 and Intel
®
Architecture (Intel
®
VT-X)
Intel
®
VT-x Objectives
Intel VT-x provides hardware acceleration for virtualization of IA platforms. Virtual
Machine Monitor (VMM) can use Intel VT-x features to provide an improved reliable
virtualized platform. By using Intel VT-x, a VMM is:
• Robust: VMMs no longer need to use para-virtualization or binary translation. This
means that VMMs will be able to run off-the-shelf operating systems and
applications without any special steps.
• Enhanced: Intel VT enables VMMs to run 64-bit guest operating systems on IA x86
processors.
• More reliable: Due to the hardware support, VMMs can now be smaller, less
complex, and more efficient. This improves reliability and availability and reduces
the potential for software conflicts.