What is the main difference between an external and internal virtual switch?

The main distinction between an external and an internal virtual switch lies in their connectivity to the physical network. An internal switch facilitates communication between virtual machines (VMs) and the host operating system but does not connect VMs to the outside physical network. This means that the host's virtual network interface card (NIC) is connected to the internal switch, allowing for communication between the host and VMs while isolating them from external networks.

In contrast, an external switch is designed to connect VMs to the physical network, enabling them to communicate with external devices and the broader network environment. This connectivity allows VMs to send and receive traffic as if they were any other physical machine on the network.

Understanding these functionalities is crucial for configuring virtual network environments effectively. The internal switch may be preferred for scenarios where VMs need to interact with the host only, without exposure to external network traffic.