As part of the ongoing updates and renaming efforts, Azure Stack HCI has now been integrated into Azure Local. However, older versions like Azure Stack HCI 22H2 will still reference the previous name during this transition period. The product documentation is gradually being updated to reflect the new terminology.
In this article, let’s get to know how nested virtualization works, its use cases, and how to enable it in Azure Local.
Understanding Nested Virtualization in Azure Local
Nested virtualization is a powerful feature that allows you to run Hyper-V within a Hyper-V virtual machine (VM).This capability maximizes hardware utilization and provides additional flexibility in various scenarios such as testing and evaluation.
In environments where Azure Local (formerly Azure Stack HCI) serves as a virtualization host, it is important to note that nested virtualization is not supported for production environments. Instead, Azure Local should be deployed on validated physical hardware for production workloads.
Despite this, nested virtualization can be incredibly useful in specific use cases, such as:
- Running applications or emulators within nested VMs
- Testing new software releases or configurations
- Accelerating deployment times for training environments
How to Enable Nested Virtualization on a VM
You can enable nested virtualization using Windows Admin Center or PowerShell.
Steps for Enabling Nested Virtualization via Windows Admin Center:
1. Connect to Your Cluster: Open Windows Admin Center and connect to your Azure Local cluster.
2. Select Virtual Machines: In the Tools pane, click on Virtual Machines.
3. Choose Your VM: Under Inventory, select the VM where you want to enable nested virtualization.
4. Modify Settings: Click on Settings, then choose Processors.
5. Enable Nested Virtualization: Check the box labeled Enable nested virtualization.
6. Save Settings: Select Save processor settings to apply the changes.
Configuring Nested Virtualization with PowerShell
For more advanced users, nested virtualization can also be configured via PowerShell. For detailed instructions, refer to the Run Hyper-V in a Virtual Machine with Nested Virtualization documentation.
Nested Virtualization Processor Support in Azure Local
With Azure Stack HCI version 21H2 (now integrated into Azure Local), support for nested virtualization on AMD processors has been introduced. You can now run nested virtualization on AMD EPYC processors (first generation or newer), including the Naples, Rome, and Milan processor families.
Prerequisites for Nested Virtualization Support:
- Azure Stack HCI version 21H2 or newer
- VM configuration version 10.0 or greater
- An AMD EPYC processor with SVM (Secure Virtual Machine) enabled
Conclusion: Making the Most of Nested Virtualization with AVASOFT Expertise
At AVASOFT, we specialize in guiding businesses through complex infrastructure solutions, including Azure Local implementations. Our expertise in virtualization, hybrid cloud environments, and nested virtualization ensures that you can maximize your hardware investments while enabling flexibility in testing and development scenarios.
For businesses looking to adopt Azure Local and integrate nested virtualization into their environments, AVASOFT offers tailored strategies, ensuring that your deployment is optimized for both production and non-production needs. Whether you are scaling up a virtualized environment or testing new software, we ensure your Azure Local platform is set up to drive business innovation effectively.
Reach out to AVASOFT today to learn how we can help you integrate Azure Local with nested virtualization for a more efficient, future-ready IT environment.
