SWSoft, the makers of Plesk, has changed its name to Parallels. Parallels is their desktop virtualization product that they are now pushing as a key product line. Will be interesting to see how it compares to VMware, the market leader in virtualization. When I get a chance, I plan to check out Parallels for Windows, for now we are still using VMWare.
This move marks part of a larger strategy of the company to produce comprehensive SaaS-type solutions. With Parallels, they can build and release virtualized application platforms. This is significantly more powerful than just running another OS.
For example, they just announced Spreed is using Parallels to simply the delivery of their conferencing solutions.
"Parallels Virtuozzo Containers use the Application Packaging Standard (APS) to deliver the spreed conferencing software as a virtual appliance that can run on any server securely. Previously, a spreed user had to download, install and then configure the software to run on their computer. Initially available in August 2006, the solution was converted to a virtual appliance in September 2007. Today, it is used by more than 100,000 users to talk, share and view files including video, as well as type chat messages."
The packaging of applications into containers will make it easier to deliver complex services to users. Imagine if you had a very complex application that had a lot of special software. Instead of trying to wade through various operating systems, you could package the product into a virtual appliance that your users just download and run on Parallels.
Virtuozzo is the server version of Parallels virtualization technology. I think they will have a hard time making market gains against VMware, but over the years Sergei, the CEO of Parallels, has shown that his company can be market leaders.
With their acquisition of Ensim, Hsphere, and rumors circling about other operations, SWsoft (now Parallels) will be a copy to watch in 2008.
