In one big, bold move Citrix and Microsoft have teamed against VMWare to capture market share.  All this is good for the consumer.  You see, the virualization of computer systems is the only way to really capitalize on the hardware investments companies have made.  Up until now that required an extra expense in software to handle the virtualization layer.

Citrix is now going to release XenServer (the virtualization core) for free and only charge for support and advanced tools, now called  Citrix Essentials and includes dynamic provisioning of large numbers of virtual machines from single master images; StorageLink technology that improves use of storage with direct access to features in storage arrays; the ability to control storage from the virtualization console; rapid delivery of virtual machines from a centralized image library; and links to any third-party backup or management tool.

So, now more than ever the next time you feel (or are told) you need another server, or to replace one, consider the move to virtualization.  In the end it can the savings will be felt in acquition costs, maintenance and power as well as you will have established a far more flexable enviroment.

Karl Weir

Director of Consulting, Globalquest Solutions Inc.

Tags: Technology Today

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