Don't count out Microsoft and Hyper-V in 2010

This year has seen many new developments in virtualization, one of which involved Microsoft’s release of Server 2008 R2, along with many improvements to Hyper-V. Many have shunned Microsoft for attempting to compete in the marketplace, but why? 

VMware and Microsoft constantly compare their products from a feature set and cost perspective. VMware understands Microsoft’s capabilities, and Microsoft understands that VMware owns the current premiere product in the virtualization marketplace. A comparison of the two products is not an apples to apples comparison, but rather an exercise in understanding what is and is not important for your organization. So, here’s where the rubber hits the road…

The largest untapped area for virtualization, in my experience, is the SMB space. Small to medium businesses are now venturing heavily into virtualization, just as the larger enterprises have for years. These companies, however, have a constraint that is not as much of a barrier for the larger enterprises—cost. I’ve heard the arguments from Microsoft and VMware and understand their vantage points, but when all is said and done, Hyper-V is quickly becoming the most cost-effective solution for the SMB companies, as TechTarget's Colin Steele highlighted in his podcast on December 18th.

For the record, I also agree with Alex Barrett who hit the nail on the head in her 2010 prediction article. XenServer is NOT the future for Citrix. Just look at their XenDesktop focus and close relationship with Microsoft for further proof. Hyper-V is poised to take the market by storm in 2010. But if I’m wrong, I’ll eat my own words this time next year. That’s a promise.

Agree? Disagree? Let me know. Don’t get me wrong, I love VMware, but I’m also in the process of certifying myself on Hyper-V because of the growth potential. Keep an eye on the future trends, ladies and gentlemen!