Microsoft Hyper-V is a virtualization technology that allows multiple virtual machines to run on a single physical computer. It exists as a standalone product called Hyper-V Server or as a role that can be installed on Windows Server operating systems. As a role, Hyper-V runs directly on the hardware between the physical computer and guest operating systems. As a standalone product, Hyper-V Server provides virtualization capabilities with a smaller footprint than Windows Server but with fewer features and limits on scaling. Hyper-V can be configured as either a Type 1 or Type 2 hypervisor depending on whether it runs directly on the hardware or within a host operating system, respectively.