For many IT departments currently evaluating or implementing a private cloud model of computing, this is the next phase or evolution in upgrading their existing virtualized data center. Part of that private cloud build-out consists of creating a self-service portal, typically for use in test and dev, but with plans for expanding that functionality into production.read more

This video demonstrates processes of installing and using the Hyper-V Manager from Windows 7

With Microsoft Hyper-V R2 gaining credibility, VMware still leads but is no longer the no-brainer server virtualization option.

Microsoft Corp. has made a clear competitive move against its virtualization rival VMware Inc. by announcing licensing improvements for virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) users, and collaborations on adoption programs and technology with Citrix Systems Inc., said one analyst.

With virtualization taking over the computing world, enterprises everywhere are finding that virtual machines spread across an organization need to be managed as much as their physical computers are. Companies are also figuring out that these virtual machines have special needs and requirements that can multiply very quickly as servers are added, moved, changed or removed.

Vizioncore's management tool vFoglight will work with Microsoft's virtualization platform Hyper-V by the middle of the year and with Xen from Citrix by the end of the year, the company said Wednesday at Cebit....

To stay ahead of Microsoft, VMware will have to cut prices, bolster security, simplify management and successfully navigate the desktop and the cloud.

Virsto Software has developed a Microsoft Hyper-V add-on that speeds up access to data in virtualized data centers.

By Alex Williams

VMware's acquisition of Zimbra from Yahoo points to a new form of partnership in the tech word. It's one that could define the big winners in the battle for a major piece of the enterprise market.

The acquisition shows how VMware is seeking to do more than provide virtualization technology. By packaging Zimbra's popular, open-source collaboration software, VMware can provide a more enhanced service, one that combines virtualization technology with email and calendar applications.

Hewlett-Packard and Microsoft will invest $250 million over three years on a product integration strategy meant to "significantly simplify" technology deployments for companies of all sizes, they said Wednesday. The agreement will employ a new "infrastructure-to-application" model and result in prepackaged offerings that combine servers, storage, networking and applications.