Citrix Systems announces XenServer 6, the most recent edition of its server virtualization product line, which features improved scalability and performance for cloud infrastructure, desktop virtualization, and networking. New features in Xen-Server 6 include optimizations for cloud and service delivery networking and full integration of Open vSwitch, a core technology used to build next-generation cloud networks based on the innovative OpenFlow standard.

XenServer 6 also includes XenOptimizations for desktop virtualization. According to the announcement, with this release, physical GPUs can be centrally pooled and assigned to a virtual desktop, enabling direct access and optimal graphics performance. The “Ten to Xen” feature simplifies management requirements for XenServer and allows customers to install the product and be up and running in a matter of minutes. XenServer 6 also incorporates Xen 4.1 hypervisor.

XenServer 6 is available now for download on the XenServer downloads page: http://www.citrix.com/english/ss/downloads/results.asp?productID=683148.

Arkeia Software, a leading provider of backup and disaster recovery products, recently announced a new generation of allin-one backup appliances. New features include increased usable internal disk capacities from 1TB to 20TB, which allow more backup sets to be retained on-site for faster data recovery. The appliances employ RAID-1 and RAID-6 for secure storage of deduplicated data. Upgraded network connectivity (10Gbps LAN and 8Gbps Fibre Channel SAN) permits faster backups and shorter backup windows. Additionally, integrated solid state drives (SSDs) shorten backup windows by accelerating updates to the backup catalog. Lower cost, sequential-access hard drives are ideal for storing backup sets.

The Arkeia Network Backup Appliances also support virtual platforms, including VMware’s vSphere, Microsoft’s Hyper-V, Citrix’s XenServer, and Red Hat’s RHEV. More information can be found at: http://www.arkeia.com.