News
VMware Launches User Service Network
VMware debuted its new VMware Technology Network (VMTN). The service includes pre-built virtual machines from leading software vendors, a subscription to a VMware’s products for software development and testing, and a Web site that provides a raft of technical resources.
The subscription primarily consists of copies of VMware’s main virtualization products – Workstation, ESX and GSX servers – along with pre-built virtual machines from third-parties, plus a Web site where developers can go to get expert answers, documentation and to chat with other IT professionals regarding best practices.
Using the pre-built virtual machines with applications – say, Oracle -- running on VMware’s software enables IT professionals to test out application and operating system deployments in advance of putting them into production. “They’re able to provision [the test environment] in a few minutes, rather than hours, streamlining the development process,” says Srinivas Krishnamurti, group product manager at VMware.
VMTN subscriptions cost $299 per user per year; subscriptions go on sale on Monday, June 13. Initial pre-built virtual machines include Oracle, though VMware is talking with many other vendors, the company says.
About the Author
Stuart J. Johnston has covered technology, especially Microsoft, since February 1988 for InfoWorld, Computerworld, Information Week, and PC World, as well as for Enterprise Developer, XML & Web Services, and .NET magazines.