Introduction to Intel NUC
NUC (A.K.A. Nuke) stands for Next Unit of Computing…
It is a small, powerful, and efficient computer that can be used for various purposes, including as a virtualization server.
There are many different types of NUCs out there, but when it comes to virtualization, which one is the best for a homelab?
Some people might say that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question and that the best NUC for virtualization will vary depending on your specific needs and requirements.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes the NUC so great for virtualization and see if it might be the right hardware choice for your homelab!
Interesting information for you in this guide:
- NUC Hypervisor Options
- NUC VM Server Use Cases
- Intel NUC Home Server
- Intel NUC Server Build
- Frequently Asked Questions
For more ways to use your NUC, please visit this guide on NUC uses and applications to learn how to get the most out of your mini-pc.
NUC Video Training: Setup VMware ESXi
Need more storage for your NUC? Check out this portable NAS.
NUC Hypervisor Options
A NUC hypervisor is a great way to set up a homelab.
It’s small, efficient, and easy to manage. You can use it to run all sorts of different virtual machines, making it a great way to test out new software or configurations. Plus, it’s a great way to learn more about how hypervisors work.
There are a few different NUC hypervisors out there. The most popular is probably VMware’s ESXi. But there are also options like Hyper-V, KVM, and Xen.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so you’ll need to decide which one is right for you.
Hypervisor Software
KVM is a type 1 hypervisor that is used to manage virtual machines. It is open source and can run on a variety of platforms. It is a good choice for small businesses because it is easy to use and relatively cheap. However, KVM may not be as robust as some of the other options available. And it will require Linux admin skills to grow and support it.
Xen is another type 1 hypervisor that is used to manage virtual machines. It is also open source and can run on various platforms, including a NUC. Xen is considered to be more robust than KVM, but it is also more complex to use. Additionally, Xen can be expensive if you do decide to license it.
Hyper-V is another type 1 hypervisor that you may want to consider. Microsoft developed it and is only available for use on Windows platforms. Hyper-V is considered to be a reliable and robust option, but it is also expensive. Additionally, Hyper-V can be difficult to use for those who are not familiar with Windows products.
ESXi is a type 1 hypervisor that is used to manage virtual machines. It is developed by VMware and is only available for use on VMware platforms. ESXi is considered to be the most robust and reliable hypervisor option available. However, it is also the most expensive. Additionally, ESXi can be difficult to use for those who are not familiar with VMware products.
When choosing a NUC hypervisor, it is important to consider your homelab needs. If you are looking for a cheap and easy option, KVM may be the best choice. If you are looking for a more robust and reliable option, Xen or ESXi may be better choices.
My preference is Hyper-V because it can be installed via Windows 10/11 Pro which will run great on a NUC.
Another option that can run from Windows or Linux is VirtualBox. VirtualBox is a Type 2 hypervisor that is made by Oracle. It is free to use and has a wide variety of features. However, it may not be as robust as some of the other hypervisor options.
But, no matter which NUC hypervisor you choose, it is important to do your research and make sure that it is the best option for you.
There are a variety of different NUC hypervisors available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Choose the one that fits your needs and you will be able to create a great homelab.
Related guide: Hypervisors & Virtual Machines Software Alternatives…
Intel NUC Server Build
Intel’s NUC line of mini-PCs is a great option for those looking to build a homelab server for virtualization.
The small form factor makes them ideal for use in a home environment, and the fact that they come with pre-installed Intel vPro technology means that they are ready for virtualization out of the box.
When building a homelab server for virtualization, choosing a processor that can handle the task is important. Intel’s NUC line of mini-PCs comes with a range of processors, from the dual-core Celeron to the multi-core Core i7.
This gives you plenty of options to choose from depending on your needs and budget.
Another important factor to consider when building a home server is the amount of storage you will need. Intel’s NUC mini-PCs come with a range of storage options, from 128GB to 2TB. This gives you plenty of room to store your virtual machines and data.
When it comes to virtualization, Intel’s NUC mini-PCs are hard to beat. With a range of powerful processors and plenty of storage options, they are perfect for any home server build. So if you’re looking for a small form factor mini-PC that is ready for virtualization, the Intel NUC is the perfect option.
Best NUC for Virtualization (Intel CPU)
- 【High Speed RAM And Enormous Space】16GB high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once; 512GB PCIe NVME M.2 Solid State Drive allows fast bootup and data transfer
- 【Processor】Intel Core i7-9750H (Total Cores: 6 Cores, 12 Threads Clockspeed: 2.6 GHz Turbo Speed: 4.5 GHz, L3: 12 MB); Intel UHD Graphics
- 【Tech Specs】2 x Thunderbolt 3, 6 x USB 3.1 Type-A, 1 x HDMI, 2 x RJ45 (Ethernet Lan), 1 x SD Card Reader, 1 x 3.5mm Headphone/Microphone jack; Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth Combo
- 【Operating System】Windows 11 Pro - Get all the features of Windows 11 Home operating system plus enterprise-grade security, powerful management tools like single sign-on, and enhanced productivity with remote desktop and Cortana
- [Perfect Combination of Performance and Power Consumption] Equipped with the latest 13th generation intel core i7-1360P processor (18Mb L3 cache, up to 5.0 GHz) 12 cores, 16 threads, the powerful performance and stable power consumption of intel nuc 13 make it the best choice for office, business, home, gaming and daily use. Powerful heat dissipation achieving 7 x 24 hours of quiet operation. Intel Iris Xe graphics can easily handle 3D rendering, video editing etc
- [Better Mass Storage, Better Storage Scalability] The Intel nuc 13 pro mini pc with Windows 11 Pro takes storage and performance to the next level with 32GB Dual Channel DDR4-3200 SODIMMs Ram (Supports up to 64GB DDR4 Ram) and 1TB PCle 4.0 NVMe SSD (Supports 2.5" PCle Gen4 SSD or SATA HDD, not included)
- [8K HDR & 4K 4 Screens Support] Intel NUC 13 has dc input, dp2.1, HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt4 ports, outputs clearer and more advanced picture quality, Intel NUC 13 Pro i7 support one 8K display or four 4K displays for multitasking at the same time. Come experience an immersive visual experience. The included VESA mounting bracket can better reduce the space occupied by the mini computers, the space looks more simple
- [Say Goodbye to Delays] The latest wifi 6E has three frequency bands: 2.4G, 5G, 6G, with faster speed, lower latency and stronger bandwidth. Bluetooth 5.3 has a longer and more stable transmission distance, allowing you to connect to other devices faster and seamlessly with basically zero latency. 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet provides you with unimaginable surfing speeds, loading pages, videos, etc. faster than other
- [Rich Interfaces] Including 3 X USB 3.2 Gen 2 type A, 1 X USB2.0 Gen 2 type A, 2 X HDMI2.1, 2 X Thunderbolt4 ports, DC input port, 2500MB Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm headphone/mic jack—all packed into a range of flexible, customizable form factors
- New Intel NUC Mini PC with 12th Generation Intel i7-1260P and Windows 11 Pro -Get the latest Intel NUC Mini PC with the powerful 12th Generation Intel i7-1260P processor and pre-installed Windows 11 Pro.Enjoy a maximum turbo frequency of up to 4.7GHz and benefit from its 12 cores and 16 threads, as well as its 18M smart cache.
- Impressive Graphics and Display - Experience stunning visuals with Intel Iris Xe graphics on a 4K UHD resolution display. Connect to a Mini DisplayPort for the option of an incredible 8K UHD resolution, delivering exceptional picture quality.
- More Storage and Memory -This Intel NUC Mini PC offers 16GB RAM and a 512GB PCIe SSD. Expand your memory with dual-channel DDR4-3200 SODIMMs, supporting up to 64GB.Take advantage of the M.2 22x80 key M slot for PCIe x4 Gen 4 NVMe SSD, and the M.2 22x42 key B slot for PCIe x1 Gen 3, USB 3.2 Gen 2, and SATA SSD expandability.
- Convenient Connectivity - Enjoy a variety of ports, including 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports, 2 front USB ports, 1 rear USB 3.2 port, 1 rear USB 2.0 port, 2 HDMI 2.1 *S compatible ports, 1 1000Mbs LAN port, 1 3.5mm audio jack, and 1 Intel Ethernet Controller i225-LM.Fast and Reliable Wireless Connections - Stay connected with the latest wireless technology, including Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211(Gig+) and Bluetooth 5.2.Benefit from clean and efficient wireless connections for a seamless working experience.
- Assured After-Sale Warranty - Rest easy with our three-year warranty covering all Intel NUC Mini PCs. We provide 24-hour online after-sales service and aim to respond to your queries within 5 hours.Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions. We're here to help!
- 【Powerful Performance & Built-in OS】 The Intel NUC 12, model NUC12WSHi7, also known as Wall Street Canyon, is a compact powerhouse. It is equipped with an Intel Core i7-1260P CPU, boasting 12 cores and 16 threads, with a maximum turbo frequency of 4.7GHz. This robust performance makes it ideal for high-demand tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, and heavy multitasking. The unit comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed, providing a seamless out-of-the-box experience.
- 【Superior Memory & Expandable Storage】 The Wall Street Canyon comes with a whopping 32GB of dual-channel RAM and a 1TB SSD, offering swift response times and ample storage for your files and applications. But that's not all. The system supports up to 64GB of RAM and provides space for an additional 2.5-inch SSD or HDD, making it a perfect fit for memory-intensive applications and future storage expansion.
- 【Stunning Display Capabilities】 With the ability to support up to four screens simultaneously, the NUC 12 is perfect for multitaskers and digital creatives. It can display in 4K@120Hz and even 8K@60Hz, offering crystal clear visuals for professional video editing, immersive gaming experiences, or simply streaming your favorite shows in ultra-high definition.
- 【Next-Gen Connectivity】 Equipped with WiFi 6E, the NUC 12 supports 2.4GHz, 5GHz, and 6GHz bands, ensuring fast and stable internet connections. It also features Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless device pairing. The Gigabit Ethernet port provides a reliable wired connection for data-intensive tasks, making it an excellent choice for remote work or online gaming.
- 【Versatile I/O Ports】 The compact design of the NUC 12 packs in a variety of ports. The front features two USB ports and a 3.5mm audio jack, while the back offers two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two HDMI ports, two additional USB ports, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. This wide range of connectivity options makes it easy to connect multiple peripherals, from monitors to external storage devices.
- 【Original NUC12WSHi7 Pro Genuine Intel NUC mini PC kit】 Intel NUC 12 Pro Version Wall Stree Canyon i7 1260P Mini PC Kit is equipped with Intel 12th Gen core i7 1260P CPU and Intel Iris Xe graphics,pre-installed with Windows 11 Pro Operating systems, Configuration with 2x8GB Premium DDR4 RAM, 512G Genuine Brand SSD.No need to purchase additional RAM and SSD, just plug in your monitor, mouse, and keyboard and you're ready to go, very convenient and fast.
- 【Compact size only 4.6 x 4.4 x 2.2 inches】 Intel NUC 12 Pro mini PC measures only 4.6 x 4.4 x 2.2 inches, just about the size of your palm, don't take up much space and can easily to take with you on the go. Matching VESA brackets, making it easy for you to mount your mini PC on the back of a large screen display, saving more space and looking more beautiful.
- 【Upgraded Performance with core i7 1260P Processor】The small form factor mini PC featuring the latest 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P processor 12cores 16 threads, max turbo frequency up to 4.7Ghz in burst mode, high-performance CPU can meet your different daily demands, homework, web-surfing, home-classes, music editing, and program editing.
- 【Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro OS】Intel NUC 12 Pro Version i7-1260P mini pc has already pre-installed Windows 11 Pro system and supports changing the OS to Windows 10 Pro, and Linux.
- 【 Configuration 16GB RAM and 512GB M.2 SSD】 Intel NUC 12 i7 Pro Wall Stree .Canyon mini PC kit built-in high speed 16GB premium DDR4 RAM(max speed 3200 MHz, 2 x SODIMM slots can be expanded max to 64GB) and 512GB Intel NVMe M.2 SSD(can be upgraded up to 2 TB), support the small PC running the multiple high-performance operations at the same time. Fast read and write speed for daily office and gaming use. You can expand the storage with M.2 SATA SSD or 2.5-inch SATA HDD up to 2TB(Not included).
Mini PC with AMD CPU (NUC Alternatives)
If you’re looking for a NUC alternative with an AMD CPU, there are a few options available.
- 【AMD Ryzen 7 5800H】Beelink SER5 Pro Mini PC powered with AMD Ryzen 7 5800H(8Core 16 Threads, Up to 4.4GHz, L2 4MB L3 16MB Cache), built-in AMD Radeon 8 Cores Graphics 2000 MHz. It handles heavy computing tasks smoothly, multitasks better, and provides you with excellent performance. Which can be widely used for gaming(CS:GO GTA V, Fall Guys, etc) office(PPT, AI, PS, PR) and home(video, music and web content)
- 【Large Storage Capacity】The Mini computer is equipped with 16GB SO-DIMM DDR4, 1TB M.2 SSD NVMe 2280(upgradeable to max 2TB) for faster command processing. Dual channel DDR4 upgradeable to max 64GB(2 x 32GB, up to 3200MHz). The mini pc can support powerful loading and processing capabilities for a smoother experience, such as browsing through multiple memory-hungry tabs and opening a huge graphic file quickly and easily
- 【Triple Screens Display & 4K@60Hz Support】Beelink SER5 mini desktop computer AMD Radeon Graphics 8core 1900MHz delivers powerful graphics processing. The micro computer Supports 4K three screen display(1*HDMI2.0(4K@60Hz)+1*DP1.4(4K@144Hz)+1*Type-C(4K@60Hz). Enjoy super first-class picture quality and easily improve work efficiency, reduce waiting time. Fully capable of browsing the Internet, using Office, PS applications, 4K video playback and more
- 【WiFi 6 and Multiple Ports for Stability and Efficiency】The 5800H Mini PC is equipped with WiFi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.2, which supports faster and more stable data transfer without network congestion. Multiple ports provide more choices, including 1*HDMI 2.0(4K@60Hz)port, 1*DP1.4(4K@144Hz) port, 3*USB3.2 Gen2 ports, 1*USB2.0 port, 1*Type-C (4K@60Hz) port, 1*DC jack, 1*RJ45 1000M port, and 1*3.5mm audio interface (HP&MIC) port
- 【Technical Support】We provide technical support, at the same time, if you need auto power on, and Wake on LAN (WOL) please send us the barcode at the bottom of the machine first, we will send you the corresponding tutorial file
- 【Office Gaming Mini PC】UPGRADED GMKtec Nucbox M5 Plus Series is equipped with the powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor, 8 Cores/16 Threads, Boost up to 4.50GHz, Based on the ZEN 3+ architecture, preinstalled with Windows 11 pro, this small but powerful mini pc delivers satisfying results in productivity, office work, and gaming. 35% Performance increase over previous AMD Ryzen 7 5700U, 5600U, 5560U, 5500U.
- 【32GB DDR4 RAM & 1TB PCIe SSD】Installed with DDR4 32GB RAM Dual Channel (2x16GB), the Nucbox M5 mini pc support expansion to 64GB RAM. Featured with 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 SSD, support dual slot expansion to PCIe 4.0 4TB SSD. (Upgrades not included)
- 【DUAL NIC LAN 2.5G RJ45】Fast Network Speeds: Enjoy up to 2500Mbps data transmission speed without worrying about lagging. Ideal for working, gaming, and surfing the internet. Great for Untangle, Pfsense or as a server office PC.
- 【Mini Desktop Computer with 4K Triple Screen Display】Nucbox M5 Plus integrates AMD Radeon Graphics 8 Cores 2000 MHz GPU to deliver powerful graphics processing power to easily handle the demands of complex design software, 4K@60Hz UHD video editing, and playback, or mid-range gaming. And it can connect to 3 display screens simultaneously.
- 【Fast Internet WiFi 6E + BT5.2 Connection】GMKtec Mini PC with WiFi-6E Wireless, have 2.5G/5G/6G triple band, more faster and lower latency. Bluetooth 5.2 allowing you more quickly to connect other wireless devices (headset, mouse, keyboard, etc.) Interface features 2*USB3.2 ports, 2*USB2.0 ports, 1*HDMI 2.0 port(4K@60Hz), 1*USB-C port(PD/DP/DATA), 1*DP Port, 1*Audio 3.5mm (HP&MIC), 1*DC Power Port.
- [AMD RYZEN 7 5825U PROCESSOR]: The Gaming Mini PC is powered by AMD Zen3 Ryzen 7 5825U, 8 Cores 16 Threads. Base Clock 2.0GHz, Max Boost Clock can up to 4.5GHz. Equipped with Radeon RX Vega Graphics, providing powerful graphics processing capabilities, it can cope with a variety of your favorite games and complex PS office!
- [32GB RAM 512GB M.2 SSD]: Mini Computer is equipped with high-speed 32G DDR4 and 512G M.2 SSD, which allows the small PC to run several high performance operations simultaneously. If you want more storage space, you can also add a 2.5" SSD (no included) to expand the memory upgrade storage to 2TB to suit your needs
- [DUAL 1G 2.5G RJ45 PORTS]: Fast Network Speeds: Enjoy up to 1000Mbps data transmission speed without worrying about lagging. Ideal for working, gaming, and surfing the internet. Great for Untangle or Pfsense or as a basic office PC
- [SMALL BUT POWERFUL MICRO PC]: Compared to traditional desktop computers, ACE Mini PC measures only 5x 5x 2 inches. This Mini PC has a cooling module made from a blend of high tech copper alloy for efficient heat dissipation. Built-in silent control chip, heat dissipation without noise. Multiple interface designs (1 x HDMI Port, 1 x Type-C, 1 x DP Port, 2 x 1G RJ45 Ports, 1 x 1G RJ45, 2 x USB 3.0 Ports, 2 x USB 2.0 Ports, 1 x Audio-in/out Jack)
- [STABLE TRANSMISSION & INTELLIGENT DESIGN]: Mini desktop pc supports automatic power-on, RTC wake-up and wake-on-LAN, equipped with WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 4.2 to provide a stable running experience. Our complimentary VESA bracket can mount the computer on the wall or on the monitor, replace the bulky traditional computer and win more free space
- 【AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX】BOSGAME P3 mini pc equipped with AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX (Base Frequency 3.3GHz, Max Turbo Frequency Up to 4.9GHz, 8C/16T, L2 4MB, L3 16MB), It boasts faster response speed and multi-threaded sensitive response. High performance and low power consumption.
- 【16GB DDR5 & 512GB PCIe SSD】Comes with dual channel DDR5-4800MHz 16GB RAM(2x8GB) DDR5 4800MHz RAM, BOSGAME P3 mini pc support expansion to 64GB RAM. Featured with M.2 2280 512GB PCIe SSD, with each supporting SSD of up to 4TB doesn’t consume much.
- 【Triple 4K Display Output】P3 mini gaming pc with HDMI, DP and USB4 port, support connect 3 monitors simultaneously, reduce waiting time, efficiency triple work, meet your specific needs. With AMD Radeon 680M Graphics(12core, 2400MHz), supports 4K video playback and allows you to easily handle different types of office tasks and play mainstream games.
- 【Multifunctional USB4】Advanced USB4 port of BOSGAME P3 mini gaming pc has the best-in-class 8K@60Hz display experience,supports a maximum transfer speed of 40 Gbps, compatible with DisplayPort and mount a discrete video card via USB4. *More Surprise*,USB4 can support 100W PD power supply.
- 【Dual 2.5G Ethernet Ports】Sleek design dual 2.5-gigabit ethernet port design provides more applications, such as firewalls, multichannel aggregation, file storage servers, etc. At the same time, bosgame P3 mini computers have dual-band Wi-Fi6E, BT5.2 with more substantial resisting disturbance and more stable wireless signal.
- 【AMD Ryzen 7 5800U Processor Gaming Pc】Elevate Your Gaming and Productivity with KAMRUI AM06PRO Mini Gaming PC, KAMRUI AM06PRO mini gaming pc is equipped with a high-performance AMD Ryzen 7 5800U CPU, (8Core 16 Threads, Up to 4.4GHz, 16MB L3 Cache), Compared with Ryzen 7 5700U, Ryzen 5 5600U, 5500U, and Intel Core i7-1165G7, the mini pc ryzen 7 5800U provides better multi-threading performance, delivering improved performance in multitasking and multi-threaded applications. With integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega 8 Graphics running at 2000MHz, it's perfect for creative software like Photoshop (PS), Premiere Pro (PR), Illustrator (AI).
- 【Enhanced Performance & Expandability】Experience unparalleled efficiency with the KAMRUI Mini PC, featuring a robust 8GB + 8GB dual-channel RAM that operates at lightning-fast speeds of 3200MHz. This small gaming pc supports expansion up to an impressive 32GB + 32GB, ensuring seamless multitasking and superior performance. Equipped with a generous 512GB M.2 NVME PCle3.0 SSD, which can be upgraded to a maximum of 2TB. accommodating extensive game libraries and vast multimedia collections. With the AMD mini pc, enjoy swift data access, rapid application launches, and ample space to store all your essentials, effortlessly handling tasks and fulfilling all data storage requirements.
- 【Faster Network and Stable WiFi6&BT5.2】The mini gaming desktop pc is equipped with Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6(IEEE 802.11.ax), and Bluetooth 5.2. WiFi 6 provides higher data transfer rates, up to 10Gbps, which is about three times that of WiFi 5. Bluetooth 5.2 offers faster data transfer rates, up to 2Mbps, and longer transmission distances, ensuring a stable connection. Using micro pc to enjoy the convenience of high-speed network and wireless connectivity. the small form factor pc boasts features such as Auto Power On, RTC Wake, Wake On LAN, and PXE Boot capabilities, making it an ideal candidate for server applications.
- 【Exceptional Graphics & Rich Connectivity】KAMRUI gaming pc come with Radeon RX Vega 8 Graphics(Graphics Frequency 2000 MHz) , offering a 4% enhancement in multitasking performance over preceding Zen 2 processors，Output 4K@60Hz UHD video signals through DP + HDMI2.0 + Type-C, realize triple display immersive visual experience, and help you focus and inspire when creating. Whether for office work or watching HD movies, you can enjoy high-quality visual experiences. In addition, 2*USB 3.0 ports meet diverse connection needs, enhancing gaming performance on compact gaming mini pc through rapid data transfers and boosted efficiency.
- 【Unique design】KAMRUI mini gaming computer has a compact size of only 13.2x13.2x5cm, The KAMRUI gaming desktop computer boasts a versatile array of interfaces, including USB3.0 Type-A×2, USB2.0 Type-A×2, HDMI 2.0(4K@60Hz)×1, DP1.4 (4K@60Hz)×1, USB3.2 Gen2 Type-C(4K@60Hz) x1, TYPE-C IN ×1, 3.5mm Audio Jack ×1, 2.5Gbps RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Port ×1, 1.0Gbps RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Port ×1, Sufficient interfaces for your full range of connectivity control. Network connectivity with Dual Band 2.4/5GHz WiFi and Dual RJ45 Supported 1000Mb/2.5G allow you to no longer suffer delays or outages from now on.
NUC VM Server (Cont.)
A NUC VM server is a great way to get started with virtualization. It’s simple to set up and use, and it’s a powerful platform that can handle a wide range of tasks.
NUC VM servers are perfect for small businesses and home users who need a reliable, affordable virtualization platform. They’re also great for testing and development, and they can be used to create powerful cloud-based solutions.
If you’re looking for a great way to get started with virtualization, a nuke VM server is a perfect solution.
Intel NUC Server for Business
Intel’s NUC can be used as a powerful and compact server that is perfect for virtualization.
They can be configured with a multiple-core i7 processor and 32GB of RAM, making them perfect for small businesses or home offices.
It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect to your network and devices.
Intel NUC Home Server
Intel’s NUC is a great option for anyone looking for a virtualization-friendly home server.
For either use case, the NUC comes with a range of features that make it perfect for use in a virtualized environment, including support for Intel VT-x and VT-d. It also has a low power consumption, making it an ideal choice for home or small office users.
If you’re looking for a powerful and versatile NUC that can be used in a virtualized environment, the Intel NUC home server is a great option to consider.
Related guide: Best Server Hardware for Virtualization…
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is Intel NUC powerful?
Intel NUC is a powerful mini-PC that can be used for a variety of different purposes. It’s great for home entertainment, gaming, and even office work. But is it powerful enough to be used as a virtualization platform?
Yes, Intel NUC can be used as a virtualization platform. In fact, it’s one of the best mini-PCs on the market for this purpose. It has a powerful processor and plenty of RAM, which makes it perfect for running virtual machines.
If you’re looking for a mini-PC that can be used for virtualization, Intel NUC is a great option. It’s fast, reliable, and has enough power to handle even the most demanding tasks. So if you’re in need of a virtualization platform, don’t hesitate to give Intel NUC a try.
How long will Intel NUC last?
Intel has been producing NUCs since 2012 and they have been consistently praised for their performance and value.
So how long will Intel NUC last? Given Intel’s track record, we can expect NUCs to be around for many years to come.
In fact, the latest Intel NUCs are even more powerful than their predecessors, so you can be sure that they will handle all of your virtualization needs.
If you are looking for a small, fast and affordable computer for virtualization, Intel’s NUC is a perfect choice. With its wide variety of uses and powerful hardware, NUC is sure to meet your needs.
Can I run ESXi on a NUC?
Yes, you can run ESXi on a NUC.
You’ll need to make sure that your nuc meets the system requirements for ESXi, and then you’ll need to install the VMware vSphere Hypervisor.
A NUC is a great option for running ESXi because it’s small and compact, and it doesn’t require a lot of power. It’s also a good option for homes or small businesses that don’t have a lot of space or money to invest in a full-sized server.
If you’re looking for a NUC that is specifically designed for virtualization, the Intel NUC server is a great option. It comes with an Intel Xeon processor and 8GB of RAM, and it has plenty of storage space for housing your virtual machines.
Does Intel NUC support virtualization?
Intel NUC kits come with hardware-assisted virtualization (HAV) and support for Intel Virtualization Technology (Intel VT) for hardware-based virtualization.
This makes it possible to run multiple operating systems on a single computer.
With Intel VT, you can create and run virtual machines that are completely isolated from the host system. You can also run multiple instances of an operating system on a single computer. This can be useful for testing new software or for consolidating multiple servers onto a single system.
Intel NUC kits do not support AMD-V, AMD’s virtualization technology. If you are running virtual machines that use AMD-V, you will need to use a computer that has an AMD processor.
Related guide: Enabling Virtualization in the BIOS
Is Intel NUC good for servers?
The Intel NUC is a great option for a server, especially in a virtualized environment. Its small size and low power requirements make it an ideal choice for use in a home lab or small office.
The NUC can also be easily overclocked to boost performance, making it a great choice for heavier workloads.
While the NUC may not be the best option for a large enterprise environment, it is perfect for small businesses or home users who need a reliable and affordable server. With its low price and great performance, the Intel NUC is an excellent choice for anyone looking to set up a home lab or virtual server.
Can Intel NUC be a server?
Intel NUC is a powerful and compact device that can be used as a server. It has a range of features that make it an ideal choice for this purpose, including:
- A powerful processor that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- Plenty of storage space for data and applications
- A range of ports that allow it to connect to other devices
- Reliable performance that won’t let you down
If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful server that won’t take up a lot of space, the Intel NUC is a great choice. It’s perfect for use in a home lab or small business and can handle all of your virtualization needs.
What is a NUC server?
A NUC server is a small, efficient, and low-power server that is designed for use in a virtualization environment. It is a great option for small businesses or home offices that want to reduce their energy consumption and save on hardware costs.
The Intel NUC server is a popular choice for this type of application because it is compact, quiet, and relatively affordable.
How to build a NUC server?
Building a NUC server is a relatively easy process. You will need to purchase a compatible motherboard and processor, as well as some other components such as memory and storage.
The motherboard and processor should be specific to the Intel NUC platform.
Once you have assembled all of the components, you will need to install the operating system and set up the virtualization software.
Related guide: Building a Homelab Server…
Why choose a NUC server?
There are several reasons why you might want to consider using a NUC server for your virtualization needs.
First, they are very small and compact, making them ideal for use in a cramped space.
Second, they are very energy efficient and use a fraction of the power of a traditional server.
Third, they are relatively affordable, so they can be a cost-effective option for small businesses or home offices.
Finally, they are quiet and generate little heat, making them ideal for office or home.
How do I connect my NUC?
There are a few ways to connect your NUC.
The most common way is to use an HDMI cable to connect the NUC to a monitor.
If you want to use the NUC as a server, you can install a server OS like Windows Server or Linux.
You can also use a wireless adapter to connect the NUC to a network. For more information, see the following Intel NUC documentation page to learn about:
- Connecting a NUC to a Monitor
- Connecting a NUC to a Network
- Configuring a Wireless Connection on a NUC
- Configuring a Wired Connection on a NUC
Does NUC have Bluetooth?
Newer generation NUCs have Bluetooth (BT).
Does Intel NUC have a fan?
Yes, Intel NUC does have a fan. In fact, all Intel NUCs come with a fan.
The fan is necessary to keep the system cool and running properly.
Without a fan, the system could overheat and cause permanent damage.
Some people worry that the fan will be too loud and bothersome, however, the fan on Intel NUCs is actually very quiet.
You may not even notice it is running. So, don’t let the fan scare you away from using an Intel NUC as your virtualization server. It’s a great option!
Are NUCs loud?
NUCs are not as loud as traditional servers, but they are not completely silent.
Does Intel NUC overheat?
Intel NUC has been known to overheat when used in a virtualized environment. In order to prevent this, you can take a few steps to ensure that your Intel NUC doesn’t overheat.
One way to keep your Intel NUC cool is to make sure that you have enough airflow.
You can do this by making sure that your Intel NUC is in a well-ventilated area and by using a fan to blow air onto the NUC.
Another way to keep your Intel NUC from overheating is to make sure that you don’t overload it.
If you need to put more virtual machines on your Intel NUC, you can use a different type of NUC.
If you’re looking for a NUC that is specifically designed for virtualization, the Intel NUC server is a good option.
The Intel NUC server is a small and lightweight nuke that doesn’t require a lot of power or cooling. It also comes with built-in hardware acceleration for virtual machines.
Overall, the Intel NUC server is a good option for virtualization, but it can overheat if it’s overloaded.
Another related guide: The Best Computer for a Virtualization Homelab…
Can you use Oracle VirtualBox on a NUC?
Oracle VirtualBox is a powerful x86 and AMD64/Intel64 Type 2 hypervisor that is perfect for homelab use and it allows you to run multiple operating systems on a single physical computer.
VirtualBox also has a feature called “snapshots” which allows you to take a snapshot of a virtual machine while it is running and revert to that snapshot later.
This can be very useful if you make changes to a virtual machine that you don’t like and want to go back to the way it was before.
One of the biggest benefits of using the Oracle VirtualBox on a NUC is its flexibility.
But that’s not all. It’s also very user-friendly, making it easy for even beginners to get up and running quickly. And it also offers a wide range of features and functionality, which can be customized to meet your specific needs.
Best of all, if you run into any VM problems, VirtualBox comes with excellent support from the developers.
So, is the Oracle VM VirtualBox the best software for virtualization?
It certainly has a lot to offer, and it’s definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a powerful and flexible option. However, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone is different, and you may need something that the Oracle VM VirtualBox doesn’t offer.
Be sure to do your research and compare different virtual machine software before making a decision.
Conclusion
The Intel NUC is a great platform for virtualization. Its small form factor makes it perfect for homelabs and its performance is suitable for most use cases.
If you’re looking to build a powerful home lab on a budget, the Intel NUC should be at the top of your list.
Thanks for reading! I hope this guide has helped you in your quest to find the best NUC for virtualization.
Please feel free to share comments and questions below. Happy homelabbing!
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