Datasheet, Volume 1 39
Technologies
3Technologies
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 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) adds chipset hardware implementation to support and improve I/O virtualization
performance and robustness.
Intel VT-x specifications and functional descriptions are included in the Intel® 64 and
IA-32 Architectures Software Developer’s Manual, Volume 3B and is available at:
http://www.intel.com/products/processor/manuals/index.htm
Other Intel VT documents can be referenced at:
http://www.intel.com/technology/virtualization/index.htm

3.1.1 Intel® Virtualization Technology (Intel® VT) for

IA-32, Intel® 64 and Intel® Architecture

(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 improved reliable
virtualized platform. By using Intel VT-x, a VMM is:
•Robust: VMMs no longer need to use paravirtualization or binary translation. This
means that they 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.
•More secure: The use of hardware transitions in the VMM strengthens the isolation
of VMs and further prevents corruption of one VM from affecting others on the
same system.