The entry-level VMware Server can partition Windows and Linux servers into multiple virtual machines running Linux, NetWare, Solaris x86 and Windows, according to VMware, a subsidiary of EMC Corp. The new software also supports 64-bit operating systems, the company said.

VMware Server, an updated version of the company's GSX Server product, also lets a single virtual machine span multiple processors within a single box and can take advantage of Intel Virtualization Technology on some upcoming Intel processors, VMware said.

The vendor will support current GSX Server customers for two years after the initial shipment of the VMware Servers.

"VMware has done well by managing to open up and drive the conversation on how to gain additional value from your low-value machines," said Charles King, an analyst at Pund-IT in Hayward, Calif.

Central Transport International Inc. saved US$250,000 last year by using VMware GSX and ESX Server software to consolidate more than 50 Windows servers into 10, said Craig Liess, the trucking firm's server administrator. The Warren, Mich.-based company hopes to have half of its servers running virtual environments by the end of the year.