In 2014, VMware was ranked ninth on Forbes’ “Most Innovative Companies” list, but this hasn’t stopped new developments in virtualization from rapidly closing the gap between VMware’s software suite and heavy hitters like OpenStack or CloudStack. These evolving technologies may actually come to replace VMware’s niche software as more and more customers opt for these newer stacks. But before we look at where this technology is going, let’s look at where it’s been.
Virtual Stacks: Origins
VMware was designed to meet specific needs of CIOs during the rise of virtualization. The businesses these CIOs and managers represented had applications or software packages that were never designed for virtualization, and at its most basic level, VMware’s purpose was to address this cultural shift in the tech industry. Once corporations were on board, more features were added to advance the technology.
Its origins, however, made VMware a very niche product. It was designed for enterprise-level customers, and others found themselves left out in the cold. OpenStack and CloudStack, on the other hand, were created to address a different need: the increased dependency of VMware on traditional uses. There are strengths to all three, but many innovative companies are drawn to these newer, more flexible technologies. So why exactly is VMware being replaced?
VMware vs. OpenStack vs. CloudStack
VMware comes with a rich legacy of established features and a strong support community, as well as a full suite of virtualization software. That being said, it’s a closed system, so there’s very little flexibility or room for creativity. In every aspect of the tech industry, experts are finding themselves drawn to open source technology like its two competitors. The ability to customize solutions, innovate your system, and collaborate with big-name companies to improve the software is more exciting than tradition.
Then there’s the matter of price. VMware can be relatively expensive, but it’s easier to install and get off the ground. OpenStack and CloudStack are free, but require a team of engineers to get it up and running (which can translate into higher initial costs). However, VMware comes with hefty licensing fees, so once you’ve covered the initial cost of OpenStack or CloudStack deployment, your price tag will begin to taper down over time. As a long-term solution, open source virtualization software may actually be the more cost effective means of achieving your goals.
Between the two VMware competitors, OpenStack has a better track record with large, well-known companies and a healthier reputation. As a result, it tends to take the lead as the most mature choice among open source virtualization technologies. With these attractive alternatives to VMware’s traditional infrastructure, it may come as no surprise that these new software packages are quickly taking the lead in virtualization technology.
