värddatorn

Värddatorn, in Swedish computing, refers to the computer that provides resources or hosts processes in a network or system. The term denotes the central machine in configurations with clients, guest devices, or virtual machines, and is used in contrast to gästdatorn (the guest computer) or klienten (the client).

In virtualization contexts, the värddatorn runs the hypervisor and hosts one or more virtual machines. It supplies CPU, memory, storage, and networking to the guest VMs, which operate as isolated environments while relying on the host for access to physical hardware. Common examples include servers running VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V, or KVM.

In traditional client–server setups, the värddatorn may be the central server that provides services, data, or applications to clients. It can function as a file server, web server, database server, or other service hub. The term emphasizes the role of the machine as the resource provider within the network or system.

Security and management considerations accompany the concept. Because the värddatorn exposes services and resources, it is a critical point for hardening, patching, backups, and monitoring. In virtualization, isolating virtual machines from the host can aid containment but adds management complexity. Typical tasks include regular maintenance, resource planning, performance monitoring, and ensuring reliable backups. Synonyms include värdmaskin in some contexts.