Virtualization Will Become Default for Windows

Microsoft aims no less than to make virtualization technology ubiquitous. At least as far as the Windows operating system and the Windows Server go. Mike Neil, the head of the desktop and server development teams, plans and strategy for Microsoft virtualization software, revealed that the Redmond Company will make virtualization a default setting of Windows.

"Does this mean everything will be virtualized in 5 years? Not likely due to continuing innovation at the hardware and software level, and the fact that no solution applies to everyone. That said, virtualization will become the default setting in the operating system - whether that's Windows or other OSes in the market. I feel confident that this strategy will provide customers with the most integrated solutions and the most cost-effective platform," Neil said.

Virtualization will become universal for Microsoft products due to the company's commitment to IT customers, in delivering self-management and dynamic solutions. While virtualization does not provide a resolve for such a task, it is part of the Microsoft strategy to deliver complete control over IT systems.

"The people I work with are making broad investments to offer customers a set of virtualization products to become more dynamic. These investments span multiple disciplines and range from the desktop to the datacenter. These investments - in the areas of the platform, management, applications, interoperability and licensing -- fuel our virtualization strategy. I'll touch on each now," Neil added.

Microsoft will focus on developing emulating technology from the perspective of the platforms, management and applications. And in this aspect, the Redmond Company will adapt and evolve the licensing associated with virtualization technology in order to provide cost-effective, flexible and simplified solutions.

"A couple years back we moved from installation-base licensing to instance-base licensing for server products. Since these updates, the market has grown� And just last week, with the release of SQL Server 2005 SP2, we announced expanded virtualization use rights to allow unlimited virtual instances on servers that are fully licensed for SQL Server 2005 Enterprise Edition. I'm sure licensing for virtualized environments will continue to evolve for us and the industry," Neil predicted.