Parallels Announces Technology Network and Virtual Appliances

Parallels, best known for their popular desktop virtualization solution on the Intel-based Mac (Parallels Desktop for Mac) and desktop virtualization solutions for both Windows and Linux, announced the Parallels Technology Network (PTN). The goal of the new resource is to create an online community for users, as well as developers using Parallels virtualization technology to deliver their software in self-contained virtual appliances.

Following in the footsteps of Microsoft’s MSDN and VMware’s VMTN communities, Parallels has created their PTN where users and developers can have access to a wealth of information related to Parallels virtualization technology. Also following in the footsteps of VMware’s Virtual Appliance Marketplace and Microsoft’s Test Drive Program, Parallels has entered the arena with their own version, the PVA Directory.

“We’re taking ease of use to another level by facilitating the availability and adoption of virtual appliances that run on a PC or Mac regardless of the operating system,” said Benjamin Rudolph, Director of Corporate Communications, Parallels. “Parallels Virtual Appliances are the ultimate in hassle-free technology, as they give our users access to pre-configured applications running self-contained in pre-built Parallels virtual machines.”

If you aren’t yet familiar with what a virtual appliance is, Parallels describes it as self-contained software module, usually built using Linux open source software, that performs specific functions. VAs are an excellent, low cost way to ensure that every computer user has access to critical software, regardless of which operating system they choose to run on their host computer. Because VAs are isolated from the host machine, they are a very secure way to run software, and because they are self-contained, they can be easily backed up, restored, or deleted without compromising the host system. According to Brett Adam, VP of Product Development at rPath, “Virtual appliances are the easiest way to consume software.”

One of the virtual appliances being made available at the Parallels Technology Network is an OpenOffice VA running the popular open-source software suite with Microsoft Office-like word processing, spreadsheet and presentation functions. Users can simply download the VA and run it, without any manual configuration or setup, on any Mac or PC powered by Parallels virtualization.

Other VA types being made available include applications, networking, operating systems, communications, databases and even entertainment.

Being billed as a combination research and development lab and community forum, the Parallels Technology Network features a searchable knowledge base (containing product guides, white papers, datasheets, VA documentation, FAQs and product trial downloads), a virtual appliance directory (complete with independently-developed virtual appliance software) and community forums (to discuss virtual appliances and Parallels virtualization software).

Participation in the PTN is free. Users can participate in forum discussions and submit virtual appliances to the Parallels Lab for review. VA Partners can post their logo and URL to the directory to establish a greater community presence, and can also work on co-marketing efforts with Parallels. In addition, technology partners exist. Their VAs are certified to be of extremely high quality, stability and functionality. Vendors also work closely with Parallels on marketing, business development, and product development, and play an integral role in fostering the adoption of virtualization in the broader computing market.

You can visit the Parallels Technology Network, here. And you can also visit the Parallels Virtual Appliance Directory, here.