Microsoft made two major announcements regarding its virtualization technologies. The first concerns the way XP and the second on his marriage with Citrix.

Simplification of XP
Microsoft has updated the XP mode present in Windows 7 and it is now possible to use this feature even if you do not have a processor optimized virtualization, that is to say compatible with the technology Intel VT or AMD V. This update is intended for those who could not turn this feature before on their copy of 7 Professional, Enterprise or Ultimate, the only authorized to use this mode.

This will greatly simplify the lives of directors in companies that were sometimes enable the virtualization capabilities of the processor in the BIOS to the XP operating mode, which is very heavy when the park to manage. Updates 32-bit and 64-bit can be downloaded from the publisher site.

Windows Server 2008 R2 and Windows licenses
Microsoft also announced two major news for the virtualization business. The first is Windows Server 2008 R2 and involves the addition of two features. Dynamic Memory now enables Hyper-V to change the amount of memory the virtual machine on the fly. It is thus possible to make adjustments without disruption of service depending on the workload. RemoteFX allows for him to offer multimedia and 3D for virtual desktops accessed remotely. This feature manages all types of content and will be activated when the new Remote Desktop client will ship with SP1 of Windows 7.

The aspect that will appeal perhaps most businesses is still on the simplification of the game licenses. From 1 July 2010, customers of Windows Software Assurance customers no longer need to purchase an additional license to use their OS in a VDI environment. It is also possible for employees to access their virtual office as well as their Windows version of Office virtualized remote, even if they are not on the corporate network, as on their personal machine at home or an extra computer in a cafe or an airport.

Partnership between Microsoft and Citrix
Finally, Redmond and Citrix have announced to join the enterprise virtualization, as shown in the site CitrixandMicrosoft.com. Both companies and programs to exchange a license for VMware View a Microsoft VDI and Citrix XenDesktop Standard VDI free for up to 500 licenses, the aim being to encourage companies to switch solution.

It is also possible for new customers enjoy solutions VDI publishers at discounted prices; they offer a discount of 50% on selected suites. Finally, the two companies have said work together on some technologies. A prime example is the extension of technology to RemoteFX XenDesktop. In short, the two companies would combine their technologies and their clients to better cope with giants like VMware or Oracle.