Likewise to Launch CIFS Appliance for VMware

Likewise is previewing a new tool to help system admins migrate file-servers from 'legacy' platforms to virtualized solutions powered by VMware and Likewise software. The Likewise CIFS Appliance will run the Likewise CIFS file server in a virtualized environment powered by VMware vSphere.

"We have seen a great deal of interest in our Linux-based CIFS server. The scalability and performance of Likewise CIFS offer customers a solution for Windows compatible storage in heterogeneous networks," said Likewise CEO, Barry Crist.

"The virtual appliance technology preview we're debuting at VMworld is a response to the enthusiasm we've seen from customers and partners for new ways to deploy Likewise CIFS - and we're looking forward to working with partners on additional offerings," he added.

Likewise CIFS is a file server solution aimed at mixed networks with Windows machines. The idea is to have Linux-powered file server that can be accessed by Windows boxes through the native sharing protocols.

There are a lot of scenarios where this comes in handy and using Likewise CIFS instead of a Windows Server-based solution comes with several advantages, not the least of which is price.

The Likewise CIFS Appliance is the next logical step for the product. Customers will be able to deploy the Likewise CIFS file server in a virtual host, benefiting from all of the advantages of using virtualization without losing compatibility or too much performance.

The Appliance also integrates with the vSphere/vCenter console enabling administrators to manage the file server through the common interface. This the true advantage of using the Appliance rather than just deploying the Likewise CIFS file server in a virtualized OS.

Administrators can also manage the file server through the Microsoft Management Console (MMC) from Windows systems as well as through a web interface. The latter enables admins to manage the server from any location or device with internet access.