| Virtualization makes it possible to run multiple | | | | Microsoft was the first to take this problem seriously, |
| operating systems and applications on the same | | | | introducing a simple license virtualization plan several |
| physical hardware at the same time. This approach | | | | years back that would allow customers to pay for |
| has added a level of complexity to software license | | | | licenses based on the number of processors the |
| management. Even the slightest change in the virtual | | | | software will run on in virtual mode. Since then, some |
| environment - which nowadays can be completed in | | | | vendors have taken measures to make their licensing |
| just minutes - can have a profound impact on | | | | approaches more "virtualization friendly". But, many |
| existing licenses. | | | | others have yet to follow suit, creating tremendous |
| How do you minimize your exposure? Many experts | | | | confusion and concern among companies who are |
| agree that software license management systems | | | | embarking on software virtualization strategies. |
| can help companies overcome the compliance | | | | Software asset management solutions can make |
| challenges associated with license virtualization. | | | | license compliance easy, even in environments where |
| Compounding the problem is that, to date, vendors | | | | software virtualization plays a prominent role. By |
| have yet to get on the same page when it comes | | | | providing companies with a greater ability to track |
| to software virtualization and related license | | | | the licenses contained both on physical desktops, as |
| requirements. Although they can agree on one thing - | | | | well as within virtual machines, and reconcile them |
| that software virtualization will make per-server and | | | | with what's been purchased, companies can more |
| per-user pricing a thing of the past - varying support, | | | | effectively achieve compliance and eliminate the risk |
| limits, and restrictions among fee structures have left | | | | of fines and penalties in the event of a third-party |
| companies unsure how to address license | | | | audit. |
| virtualization. | | | | |