VMware Launches VMware Go

VMware on Wednesday launched VMware Go. The Web-based tool, previously in beta, enables small and medium-sized businesses to get started with virtualization by automating the installation and configuration of VMware's ESXi hypervisor.

By offering VMware Go, the vendor is trying to simplify the implementation process, thereby putting virtualization in reach of SMBs.

"With VMware Go, we are eliminating the skill barrier for getting started with virtualization, so companies who are concerned about not having the IT resources or expertise, especially SMBs, can now more quickly and easily enjoy the many benefits of virtualization," Dan Chu, VP of emerging products and markets for VMware, said in a statement.

VMware Go is offered at no charge. The tool has been used by more than 1,000 beta testers to create more 3,000 virtual machines, the vendor said. The combination of VMware Go and ESXi makes it relatively easy for SMBs to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single server, which can reduce spending on hardware.

VMware Go accomplishes virtualization in three step. The first is the initial ESXi server setup through a Web-browser interface and wizard that guides the user through the process. The tool includes a built-in hardware compatibility check that automates the selection of physical server environments.

The next step is the virtual machine creation, which can leverage an existing physical server configuration, install a pre-built virtual appliance, or start with a new VM.

Finally, VMware Go provides a centralized management interface to simplify changes to a virtual environment and to monitor VMs for basic performance and resource utilization. In addition, management capabilities include scanning and updating VMs from a central console.

VMware competes with Microsoft in providing virtualization tools to SMBs. Microsoft offers the System Center Essentials Management Suite targeted at companies with 50 to 1,250 desktops and fewer than 30 servers.