Final answer:
For virtualization tasks, prioritize maximizing RAM and CPU cores, as they directly impact the performance of running multiple virtual machines.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assembling a custom workstation for virtualization tasks, the two hardware components that should be prioritized are Maximum RAM and Maximum CPU cores. Virtualization involves running multiple virtual machines, each of which requires a portion of the system's memory and processing power to function effectively. Therefore, having a large amount of RAM allows you to allocate enough memory to each virtual machine, while having more CPU cores can handle the concurrent processing demands of multiple virtual environments.
Although high-end cooling, a fast hard drive, and a high-end video card can be important for other tasks, they are not the primary concerns for a system focused on virtualization. Cooling is important for all computers but does not directly impact virtualization performance, while a fast hard drive can improve overall system responsiveness and load times. A high-end video card is generally more important for tasks such as gaming or graphic design than for virtualization.