Network Virtualization

Correct Answer: It is a software-based switch that connects virtual machines (VMs) to each other and to physical networks.

A virtual switch is indeed a software-based switch that connects virtual machines (VMs) to each other and to physical networks. This allows VMs to communicate with each other as if they were on the same physical network, even though they may be on separate physical machines or even separate networks. The other options are not correct because a virtual switch is not a physical device, it's not a protocol for automatic configuration, and it's not a type of firewall implemented as a virtual machine. Those might describe a physical network switch, a protocol like DHCP, and a virtual firewall, respectively, but none of them accurately describe what a virtual switch is.

Correct Answer: To provide security for virtual networks and virtual machines.

The purpose of a virtualized firewall is to provide security for virtual networks and virtual machines by controlling network traffic in a virtualized environment. Although answers 2, 3, and 4 refer to possible benefits of virtualization, they are not directly related to the core purpose of a virtualized firewall. A virtualized firewall does not necessarily increase network performance, this is typically the role of network optimization tools. Simplifying network management can be a potential benefit of virtualizing your network infrastructure, but it's not the main purpose of a virtualized firewall. And finally, virtualizing physical network resources is a general concept of virtualization and not the main purpose of a virtual firewall.

Correct Answer: Windows registry keys

Network virtualization involves creating a simulated, programmable network environment. The components of network virtualization usually include virtual network interface cards (NICs), virtual switches, and virtual routers. These components help to segment the network, reroute traffic, or manage different IP networks within a virtual environment. On the other hand, 'Windows registry keys' are a component of the Windows operating system used to store configuration settings, inherently unrelated to the concept of Network Virtualization. Therefore, 'Windows registry keys' is not a component of Network Virtualization.