SUSE Unveils New Cloud Platform
As a long time user of SUSE Linux, it is exciting to see the growth in the platform which just got a very interesting feature addition with the latest iteration of the SUSE cloud platform. SUSE Cloud is up against some strong competition with incumbents such as Red Hat and Canonical’s Ubuntu platform, but they have made a strong which I believe could open the doors to new customers with the latest release.
Enterprise Features, Open Source Backing
The big features that were announced for the SUSE Cloud, an OpenStack based cloud platform include:
- Ceph integration
- VMware integration
- Integrated High Availability
These standout features will be helpful in leading current customers of VMware to be able to embrace a cloud platform using the fast growing OpenStack ecosystem, while continuing to leverage the power of their VMware on-premises environment.
By taking aim at VMware integration, SUSE has done the right thing in my opinion. One of the challenges with bringing OpenStack on board for many organizations is that the learning curve and integration challenges can often scare away potential customers. It isn’t that the platform isn’t appropriate, but more that there is still a significant effort to deploy and administer in some cases.
For administrators who don’t have as much familiarity with OpenStack and Linux, this will be a great way for getting more OpenStack on the floor for customers.
Can SUSE Compete?
Many have asked about the ability for SUSE to compete against other big players in the OpenStack and Linux environment. Time will tell as the product gets more uptake, and I am sure that SUSE will be marketing their capabilities heavily to keep eyes on their product.
With VMworld around the corner, it is inevitable that many more announcements will come. As we get to test drive more OpenStack and VMware integrated solutions for private cloud, this will only spur on more innovation and better customer experience.
SUSE may not have the budget of the big players in the Linux space, but don’t discount them just yet. Look for more to come from them over the coming months for sure.
Submit a Comment