technology Archives - Teknique IT

Businesses today simply cannot function without the help of the most up-to-date computer technology. Big or small, most businesses require the use of multi-server networks. Having multiple servers usually means spending more money and having less space. Fortunately, that doesn’t always have to be the case thanks to virtualization strategies.

What is Virtualization?

Regardless of the extent of your knowledge of computers and technology the concept of virtualization is fairly simple to understand. In fact, simplicity is kind of the foundation of a virtualization strategy. The concept involves using the already-available resources of your network to create the effect of a multiple-server network without the hassle of adding more physical servers and paying the additional costs.

How Exactly Does Virtualization Work?

Virtualization is created by dividing up the components of a computer so that each of the various components can essentially function as an individual server. This creates the effect of having multiple servers without the need for additional space and cost, which can be very beneficial to businesses that need larger networks to function. Virtualization helps develop a “super computer” of sorts that eliminates the need for actually having the extra servers that are usually required. This dividing process is achieved by the use of a hypervisor, which is the software used for virtualization.

What Are Some of the Major Benefits of Virtualization?

One of the most noteworthy benefits of virtualization is the fact that it is cost-effective. Businesses that require multiple servers are well aware just how costly such an undertaking can become. However, because virtualization makes use of the already-existing components of a computer to create highly-functioning server substitutes, this allows businesses to avoid having to spend the money required for running multiple servers. This also conserves energy, which is something that should always be kept in mind when running a large network.

A great deal of physical space is also saved when you employ a virtualization strategy. With multiple standard servers, you will often end up with a large amount of extra gear for networking that can easily take up a lot of space. This is often a burden, especially for small businesses that don’t have a lot of room to work with in the first place. Fortunately, a virtualization strategy only requires the same amount of space you started out with.

Who Should Implement a Virtualization Strategy?

Though it may be fairly simple to understand benefits of virtualization and how it works, that does not mean it can be implemented by just anyone. Since the process of dividing up computer components efficiently is a complex process when it comes down to the technical aspects, a certified professional should be hired to help create a virtualization strategy.

By the time most American kids are toddlers, they are regularly exposed to technology. Whether it’s an iPad, iPhone or electronic learning device, technology is already taking over attention spans at a young age. Let’s not forget all the TV shows that are made for kids now, and video games, creating generations of inactive children and raising the obesity rate. Adults are even more plugged in, with studies showing that over 80% would be completely lost if they had to go one day without a cell phone.

While apps for kids can help different learning styles, and mobile devices keep us connected and able to work efficiently and remotely, it is important to detach every so often. Here we explore why it’s good for a healthy mind and body for adults and kids to unplug, and some great alternative ways to spend your free time.

Why We Need to Unplug

Technology Causes Poor Sleep Patterns

Kids who play video games or watch TV before bed have a risk of disturbed sleep patterns. The light that emits from electronics can disrupt sleep, since it interferes with the production of melatonin, our sleep hormone. All devices should be turned off at least one hour before bed so kids can get relaxed mentally to fall asleep.

Reduce the Stress Caused by Social Media

When we unplug, we stay off our social media sites like Facebook and Instagram, which have been known to cause stress. With the advancement of technology has come a legitimate psychological disorder: Fear of Missing Out (FOMO). Since we have a constant stream of updates from our “friends” about what they’re doing, down to their food pics, it causes humans to feel like they are missing something or not leading ban exciting enough life. Research shows that people feel more jealous, lonely and dissatisfied with their life after visiting Facebook. Unplugging teaches us to be content in our current space, and to appreciate the lives we have.

Forgetting What is Truly Important

Even though we can text, Skype, Tweet, Face Time and Post to get in touch with our friends and even sometimes with family members in the same household, life is still about personal contact. When you talk with someone face-to-face, deeper connections are made than what goes on when you’re separated by a screen. This is especially important for fostering healthy relationships with your children, and how they learn to relate to and treat others. Social skills are critical for a healthy life and making contacts down the road. Parents need to be a good example and teach their kids that devices are not allowed at certain times of the day, such as meal times.

Alternatives to Technology

There are plenty of healthy alternatives to technology that adults and kids can participate in together:

Games: Board and card games are a great alternative to TV. It brings the family together, and teaches valuable skills like turn taking and how to interact face-to-face.
Reading: Allows the child’s imagination and literacy skills to develop.
Outdoor Activities: In the winter, take the kids sledding, snowshoeing, skiing or ice fishing. In the summer you can bond over a camping or hiking trip, followed up with a marshmallow roast.
Crafting: Instead of zoning out in front of a TV or playing video games, teach your kids crafts that are done by hand. Boys or girls can learn to build, paint, sculpt, scrapbook and more. It keeps the creative juices flowing and teaches them the satisfaction of how it feels to accomplish a task from start to finish.
Sports: Finding a sport your child loves will keep them healthy and teach relationship skills.

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Why You Should Consider the Benefits of Virtualization