On Thu, 30 Aug 2012 21:31:56 +0100, Orchid Win7 v1 wrote:

>>> None of which explains why I have to manage disk images and VMs
>>> separately in Virtual Box, when they are nearly synonymous.
>>
>> Because they /aren't/.  A disk image can be used by multiple VMs.  You
>> understand the mechanics, but your conclusion that they're "nearly
>> synonymous" is faulty.
> 
> A virtual machine is just a simulation of a computer. You can create and
> destroy an unlimited number of them at will. The only thing that
> distinguishes one from another is the data it does or does not have on
> it - i.e., the disk image(s).

Well, no, there's the virtual hardware configuration as well.

But again, when dealing with linked clones, you have a common base and 
then things change from VM to VM.  Linked clones use both a common disk 
and their own differentiating disk overlays that make them unique.

As such, disks/VMs are not "nearly synonymous".

Jim

Post a reply to this message