CHIP CHANGES PROPEL VIRTUALIZATION

摘要

Next year is shaping up to be a really big year for virtualization-new x86 processors from Intel and AMD, combined with brisk competition between VMware, Microsoft and companies using the open-source Xen hypervisor are already revving up the market. Features in next-generation Intel and AMD processors eliminate many of the hardware issues that have stymied virtualization vendors, meaning all those smart R&D people can finally turn their attention to making server virtualization enterprise-ready by addressing performance and management problems. We examine x86 roadmaps from AMD and Intel, and discuss approaches to hypervisor technologies by VMware, Microsoft and Xen. We offer-tips for those planning a virtualization initiative, in "Vir-tualizations Tips", and on page 50 we suggest alternatives to full-server virtualization. We also chose to profile Virtual Iron Software because of its commitment to Xen virtualization. Eventually, the real winners will be overburdened data centers that can transition from a physical environment to a more flexible, virtual one. But if you can, hold off for just a while: While VMware's ESX Server is still the strongest offering, this market is on the move. It promises to be a fascinating ride.