In the past applications were run on their own dedicated server
hardware. More applications meant more servers. Virtualisation
reduces server sprawl, as IT departments can consolidate several
applications on a singe box. Virtualisation also has a role in
green IT: it can improve the efficiency of servers and lower the
amount of electricity consumed. But virtualisation comes at a cost.
In this podcast, Cliff Saran speaks to Gartner vice-president Alexa
Bona about the licensing costs that can erode any financial
savings.
