Opsware targets 'zero latency' data centres

Opsware's Server Automation System software can aid server provision and help map applications

Opsware has updated its Server Automation System software in the hope of speeding up Windows and Red Hat Linux server provisioning, and helping companies map applications and processes in complex virtual server environments.

Version 6.5 also automates software updates, ITIL compliance settings and application configuration management, and includes support for Windows PowerShell scripting for the first time.

Opsware CTO Tim Howes believes no other management tool provides the same breadth of visibility across so many different groups of storage and application elements.

“The big four management vendors (HP, IBM, CA and BMC) focus on the server side of storage not the storage area network (SAN) side. Nor do they offer process automation, though they do have a tremendous amount of weight in the market,” he said.

Using automated software may also help reduce man hours and labour costs involved in managing complex data centre environments, Howes added. Opsware acquired IT process automation vendor iConclude earlier this year for an undisclosed sum.