Microsoft SQL Server medusa turned into cloud pussy cat

Companies running many instances of SQL Server can try startup DH2i's DxConsole to virtualise the database's processes.

Clients using the virtualised SQL Server instances think they are accessing their own private copy of the software but they are not; they are using a shared infrastructure of databases, servers and storage, with the DxConsole product keeping track of which client is doing what and turning Microsoft's sequel serpent into a private cloud utility.

DH2i reckons that a sprawl of SQL Server instances is hugely inefficient and creates an onerous management burden. Virtualising the instances enables better base resource utilisation in the same way as virtualising a server does.

Also, DH2i claims the virtualised instances can be moved within and between heterogeneous physical, virtual and cloud environments, with zero interruption in service.

Don Boxley, the founder and CEO of DH2i, said: "Customers will still use server virtualisation tools to move vservers between hosts. Consequently, customers will enjoy two levels of virtual protection - at the app level and the server level."

The product is said to provide:

• On-the-fly instance re-hosting
• Scalable and elastic "on-demand" server and storage performance
• Fast failover instance high availability services
• Built-in instance-level multi-site disaster recovery support
• Single point storage management and data backup
• 1-click maintenance.

Boxley said: “Our customers will typically see their server, storage and software installs cut in half, configuration and management time slashed by as much as 75 to 85 per cent, and total cost of ownership lowered by more than 50 per cent.”

That sounds good but it doesn't mean you can cut the number of SQL Server licences you will need. DH2i isn't saying that.

We imagine a DxConsole for SharePoint instance virtualisation is in DH2i's roadmap.

DH2i DxConsole is now available and priced at $8,500 per CPU licence. Use an online TCO Calculator at DH2i's website to check out your potential cost savings. ®