Parallels promotes virtual appliances

Online forum offers virtualisation research library and development lab

Virtualisation specialist Parallels has unveiled an online forum for developers and users of virtual appliances, pre-built virtual machines designed for a specific function such as operating a firewall.

The Parallels Technology Network (PTN) offers users and developers access to information regarding Parallels virtualisation technology, the company said. Developers can also make their software available to Parallels users as virtual appliances.

"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 Parallels director of corporate communications, Benjamin Rudolph.

One virtual appliance already available from the PTN enables Mac or PC users with the Parallels Desktop software to run the OpenOffice.org productivity suite without any further configuration or setup.

Parallels said the PTN is a combined research library, development lab and community forum. It contains a knowledge base, virtual appliance directory and forums for users.