An expert has claimed that virtualization technology is the "magic pixie dust" that helps firms to embrace cloud computing.
Walid Negm, director of cloud and security offerings at Accenture Technology Labs, said that the systems allow the "deconstruction of the physical world" which is key to using a more efficient cloud set-up.
Writing for ComputerWorld UK, he added that there are several security issues for companies to consider when embracing virtualisation, such as the need to protect the physical environment and control who creates virtual machines.
He explained: "There are plenty of best practices to implement a safe and sound virtual infrastructure.
"Take a look at your policies and procedures to make certain they are available and executable in a virtual setting."
According to recent figures from IDC, 16.5 per cent of all new servers shipped during the second quarter of 2009 were virtualized, which is an increase of 14.5 per cent from 12 months earlier.