Parallels

Overview

Parallels, founded in 1999, has a broad range of solutions running the gamut from desktop and server virtualization software, server and operating system consolidation, development and test environments, and enterprise IT and database automation.

Since virtualization is a core component of cloud computing, it's natural for Parallels to move more formally into the market, but rather than compete directly with the big boys (e.g. Amazon, Google and Microsoft), their strategy focuses on enabling what they call "service clouds." These clouds are run by service providers (SPs), independent software vendors (ISVs), and telcos - often in partnership - to deliver web and application hosting clouds, industry-specific services and on-demand business software (i.e. SaaS). Similarly, they target enterprise customers with their solutions to help them to build internal or private clouds.

Value Proposition

Parallels' virtualization and automation solutions help SPs, ISVs and telcos get to market quicker with cloud services by reducing the time and effort needed to build, deploy and manage hosted applications. They deliver virtualization at the OS level, which is said to significantly reduce server overhead and vastly improve management operations.

Products & Services

• Parallels Automation is used to handle both the business and operations side of running SaaS solutions; it helps make service delivery, management and billing easier and automates server provisioning and management, application management, the creation of service plans, end-user self-service, and reseller management.
• Parallels Virtuozzo Containers provides virtualization at the host operating system level, rather than the hardware or hypervisor level, creating a more efficient and effective layer of virtualization.
• Parallels Plesk Panel is a browser-based user interface that lets administrators manage the servers associated with their hosting environment, easily add applications and automate tasks like billing.
• Parallels Operations Automation - SaaS Module is targeted at service providers who want a pre-packaged solution specifically for launching on-demand applications through their hosted environment.