Parallels is expected to launch the first server virtualization solution for Intel-based Macs as soon as today, AppleInsider is reporting. Beating rival VMware, best known for its VMware Fusion virtualization software, the $999 Parallels Server will be "a powerful and easy-to-use hypervisor solution for server virtualization" aimed at Intel-based hardware running OS X Leopard Server (that includes the brawny Xserve and Mac Pro).

Parallels Server is a powerful and easy-to-use bare metal hypervisor virtualization solution that provides the best value for companies looking to consolidate and optimize their IT infrastructures, the least costly way. Parallels seems to have done it.

Built on Parallels' award-winning virtualization technology, Parallels Server enables organizations to standardize server hardware platforms, effectively consolidate server resources, consolidate and support legacy OSes and applications, streamline server and application deployment, maintenance and management, simplify software testing and development and optimize server and application availability.

Parallels Server delivers "performance, reliability, and flexibility," according to the makers, while its solution is equally easy to deploy, use and manage, to offer a seamless user experience with one ultimate goal: "maximizing IT administration efficiency".

"Many of today's server virtualization solutions are designed from a top-down approach, suited for mostly large enterprises," the company says. "Parallels Server is designed to be a cost-effective solution that is full-featured and with an integrated management toolset to fit the needs of today's cost-conscious IT organizations. Parallels Server provides the essential management toolset to help IT professionals to do their jobs effectively and to keep business running as usual."

Parallels Server for Mac, the world's first virtual OS X Leopard Server running on fully loaded Xserves from Apple, is expected to ship today. Visit Parallels website, or their partners' for more information on the Server for Mac.