Virtualization is a method of running multiple independent virtual operating systems on a single physical computer.  It is a way of maximizing physical resources to maximize the investment in hardware.  Since Moore’s law has accurately predicted the exponential growth of computing power and hardware requirements for the most part have not changed to accomplish the same computing tasks, it is now feasible to turn a very inexpensive 1U dual-socket dual-core commodity server into eight or even 16 virtual servers that run 16 virtual operating systems.  Virtualization technology is a way of achieving higher server density. However.

Michael Rose, Research Analyst at IDC, discusses the rise of best practices for virtual desktop infrastructures in this executive interview sponsored by Citrix Systems.

Many companies are now talking about virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) as a way of delivering desktops virtually to end-users. Is this becoming a viable technology for mainstream enterprise customers?

Recently I’ve had a chance to partake in Partner Training for Citrix XenServer 4.0 (passed the certification test with a 87%) and to be honest… I was simultaneously impressed and disappointed in XenServer 4.0. Yes, I know it has only had a hand full of developers working on the XenSource code prior and now with the Citrix acquisition, they will greatly increase the numbers of developers. But I can’t review what hasn’t been publicly released or is currently the “roadmap” for future release.