Guide · Virtualization
KVM VPS Explained: What It Is and When You Need One
A KVM VPS is a virtual server with its own kernel, its own fixed memory and full root access, so it behaves like a real server. Container VPS (OpenVZ or LXC) share one kernel with other users, which blocks custom kernel modules and often limits Docker and WireGuard. Every FormoHost VPS runs on KVM, in 44 countries, from $12 a month plus 10% tax.
- own kernel
- fixed RAM
- full root
- Docker ready
What is a KVM VPS?
KVM stands for Kernel-based Virtual Machine. It is a virtualization technology built into the Linux kernel. A KVM VPS is a virtual server that runs its own full operating system, with its own kernel, its own memory and its own virtual disk. To your software, it looks and acts like a real server.
KVM vs container VPS
Some low-cost VPS use containers, such as OpenVZ or LXC. A container shares one kernel with every other container on the same host. That makes it light, but it also sets limits: you cannot load your own kernel modules, and tools like Docker and WireGuard may not work, or only work in a limited way. With KVM, each server has its own kernel, so these limits go away.
| Feature | KVM VPS | Container VPS |
|---|---|---|
| Own kernel | Yes | No, shared with the host |
| Load kernel modules | Yes | No |
| Docker and WireGuard | Work normally | Often limited |
| Memory | Fixed for your server | Can be shared |
What you can run on a KVM VPS
- Docker and Kubernetes nodescontainers run the same as on a physical server.
- VPN serversWireGuard or OpenVPN with their normal kernel support.
- A self-hosted mail serverport 25 is open and reverse DNS can be set. See VPS for a mail server.
- CI/CD runnersbuild agents with predictable specs. See VPS for CI/CD runners.
- Your own firewallnftables or iptables rules, set the way you want.
What KVM does not change
KVM decides how your server is isolated. It does not decide how fast your users can reach it. For speed, the location of the server matters most: a server close to your users gives lower latency. See all VPS and dedicated server locations.
How to check if your VPS is KVM
Log in as root and run systemd-detect-virt. If the answer is kvm, your server runs on KVM. If it says openvz or lxc, it is a container.
FAQ
Short answers about KVM. Billing, delivery and refunds are covered in the Help centre.
Open the Help centreIs KVM better than OpenVZ?
For most uses, yes. A KVM VPS has its own kernel and fixed memory, so software that needs kernel features, such as Docker or WireGuard, works without workarounds.
Can I run Windows on a FormoHost KVM VPS?
No. FormoHost VPS plans run Linux. Windows Server is available on many of our dedicated servers, with the licence billed separately.
Can I run Docker on a KVM VPS?
Yes. Docker works the same as on a physical server, because a KVM VPS has its own kernel.
Every FormoHost VPS runs on KVM, from $12/mo.
See all VPS locationsYour own kernel, in 44 countries.
Pick a country, pick a plan, and your KVM server is ready within 24 hours. Dedicated IPv4 on every plan, IPv6 on request, full root access.