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The VCL backend code was significantly reworked in version 2.0 to utilize a "modularized" framework.  This framework allows certain parts of the code to be separated from the core code through the implementation of modules.  For example,

VCL interacts with external technologies including:

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The technology being used may vary based on the VCL deployment, management node, image, computer, and so on.  Modules make configuring VCL to use a certain technology easy , while simplifying the core code.

The advantages of implementing modules are not limited to external technologies.  Modules may be implemented for functions applicable only to VCL, but may vary based on the environment.  For example, research is being conducted to compare different algorithms which are used to select the image that is loaded on a computer after a reservation is complete.  A module is created for each algorithm, and configuring a managment node to use a certain algoritym is as simple as changing one value in the database.

Advantages

• Modules make it easier for developers to implement new technologies to be used with VCL easily
• Core VCL code does not need to be altered in order to support additional technologies or functionality
• Increased flexibility for different configurations
• Consistent methods to access data stored in the database
• Code maintainability is increased because each module focuses on a distinct task and the core code does not need to check for numerous different conditions based on the technology being used

A module is comprised of a Perl module file.