Microsoft is expanding its64-bit computingreach toSunserver platforms, and Sun is to
become a Windows Server OEM, as the firms expand their strategic
alliance.
"This is another example of Microsoft's commitment to 64-bit
computing," said Bob Muglia, senior vice president for the Server
and Tools division at Microsoft.
"The Sun hardware platform is an excellent foundation for
Windows-based enterprise solutions, such as Microsoft Virtual
Server, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft Exchange Server and
Microsoft Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) Edition. Our
customers will have an additional choice of Windows Server OEM
partners with Sun," said Muglia.
"Customers can now take advantage of the virtualisation benefits
of Windows and Solaris on Sun's energy-efficient x64 systems," said
John Fowler, executive vice-president of the Systems Group, at Sun
Microsystems.
Sun will offer Windows Server on its x64 hardware and will
provide additional utilities and value-added software offerings to
server systems carrying Windows Server. Windows Server 2003 will be
available on Sun x64 systems within 90 days.
Sun and Microsoft will work together to ensure that Solaris runs
well as a guest on Microsoft server virtualization technologies and
that
Windows Server runs well as a guest on Sun's virtualisation
technologies. The pair also plan to make their joint solutions
better tailored to data storage needs.