Microsoft lets loose Hyper-V virtualization software beta

Microsoft isn't exactly known for releasing things early, but that's just what its done with the beta version of its new Hyper-V virtualization software, which is included as part of Windows Server 2008 RC1 Enterprise. As Microsoft itself points out, that was originally only expected to be released in the first quarter of 2008, but it says it decided to let things loose early in order to let customers evaluate the feature and provide feedback before the final release. The software itself takes aim squarely at VMWare's territory, allowing users to configure an array of virtual machines and run multiple operating systems simultaneously. If betas aren't your thing, however, you can look for the final version to roll out "within 180 days" of the release of Windows Server 2008.

[Via TG Daily]

[Phil Perman @ Dec 14th 2007 11:37AM]

As pointed out by El Reg, its only actually early compared to its second planned delay. It was originally meant to come out in H1 2007, then got delayed to H2 2007, and then delayed again to H1 2008. So what Microsoft have done is beaten the second delay, but come in bang on target with respect to the first delay.

But hey, at least its finally out the door.

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2007/12/14/beta_hyperv_microsoft/

[palehorse @ Dec 14th 2007 12:46PM]

For some strange reason, I just don't see M$ releasing a FREE version of anything this useful!

So wake me up when there's a **FREE** watered-down version that handily competes with VMware's version of the same...

[Andrew @ Dec 14th 2007 12:54PM]

You obviously haven't played with any of their Visual Studio Express editions, or Robotics Studio. Pretty beefy software that's, who'da thunk it, free. Oh, and I'm running some "free" XP and Office '07 as I type. So I beg to differ.

[palehorse @ Dec 14th 2007 12:57PM]

Free legitimate copies of XP and Office '07? uhh... OK. Sure thing. lucky you!

That said, do you honestly believe that they'll release a FREE working version of Hyper-V? (One that doesnt expire!)

[Andrew @ Dec 14th 2007 12:58PM]

Oh, and in case Billy is reading, I did plunk down the duckets for Vista Ultimate and a copy of Office '07, I just got sick of having to call Microsoft to re-verify my authenticity every time I re-formatted/re-installed.

[saq @ Dec 14th 2007 1:00PM]

Well Hyper-V is $28, basically the price of the media kit. But compared to Virtual Infrastructure 3 it is very watered down. Its a bit more comparable to ESX 3 Starter Edition.

[saq @ Dec 14th 2007 12:49PM]

Now VMware actually has some real competition from an established infrastructure player.
Its too bad Hyper-V doesn't have a quarter of the features that Virtual Infrastructure 3 for a year, and all of these features are things that people will gladly pop down $6k a box for. I will be interested to see how Hyper-V develops.

[Andrew @ Dec 14th 2007 1:02PM]

That's just silly. How would they make money if they gave away everything for free?

[Andir3.0 @ Dec 14th 2007 3:10PM]

Support.

[mattstl77 @ Dec 14th 2007 1:05PM]

Hey numbnut,
Microsoft released the 360 early. That is why some people say that they are having trouble with their console.

[ProPenguin @ Dec 14th 2007 2:57PM]

It's a Micro$oft product. History teaches us that it won't actually be stable, and therefore useful, until $ervicepack 2 or 3. Might I suggest VirtualBox (http://www.virtualbox.org ) running on a Linux server, appropriate to your needs. It's Open Source, it's stable, and best of all, it's free.

Go Penguin Power!!

[Electromodo @ Dec 14th 2007 4:20PM]

Actually, I have a good experience with MS Virtual Server 2005 R2, and though it is a new product, it is very well done. I had no problems with it for a year, though we host many servers and client machines too with it.

And it's free.

[Thefury @ Dec 14th 2007 3:02PM]

HP servers soon will all come w/ vmware ESXi embedded so they have the option of being an ESX if licensed. This push from microsoft could get VM to lower prices and give them some much needed competition.. VM have major growing pains with the explosion of customers but now with Microsoft after them they will have to stop rolling around in all the cash in the break rooms and compete for business (u'd hope!).

[Andir3.0 @ Dec 14th 2007 3:31PM]

You'd think... but I'm going to guess that Windows VM will only run on Windows Server.

[trancer01 @ Dec 16th 2007 11:43AM]

Is it just me or is there only an RC0 not an RC1 release?