HPE adds new virtualisation capability to private cloud offering

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) has announced an expansion of its hybrid cloud offerings with a new virtualisation capability for HPE Private Cloud. The addition aims to deliver enhanced simplicity, performance, and time-to-value while reducing risks associated with enterprise workloads.

The new virtualisation capability integrates open-source kernel-based virtual machine (KVM) technology with HPE’s orchestration software. This combination supports the high performance and availability prerequisites essential for demanding enterprise workloads. The virtualisation clusters are managed via a cloud-based control plane, eliminating the need for on-premises management. Even if disconnected from the cloud, HPE’s virtualisation remains highly available.

Hang Tan, Chief Operating Officer for HPE Hybrid Cloud, commented on the importance of a hybrid approach. “To truly realise the promise of hybrid cloud, companies are recognising the need to take a hybrid by design approach that delivers a unified, platform-based cloud operating model, while providing flexibility, control, and freedom from lock-in,” he said. Tan also highlighted HPE’s commitment to open standards and multi-vendor support, stating, “HPE GreenLake cloud has a proven track record of being customer-first and we are committed to open standards and multi-vendor, multi-cloud support.”

The new virtualisation capability is part of a comprehensive private cloud solution that promises an intuitive management experience, integrated data protection, and automated lifecycle management. The automation spans Day 0, Day 1, and beyond, simplifying operations with features like two-click virtual machine provisioning.

Additionally, customers will benefit from HPE’s Alletra Storage MP platform, which excels in performance and data efficiency. This platform can scale up and out independently, tailoring to varied workload requirements. Its software-defined storage (SDS) attributes extend data replication capabilities to the public cloud.

HPE Private Cloud not only supports virtualized workloads but also cloud-native and artificial intelligence (AI) workloads. These are made possible through virtual machines, containers, and bare metal technologies. The solution also seamlessly integrates with HPE hybrid cloud services, such as data protection and cyber resiliency from Zerto and AI-powered IT operations management from OpsRamp, both under HPE’s umbrella. Third-party integrations further enhance the suite’s capabilities.

With this launch, HPE sets itself apart by offering a full suite of hybrid cloud capabilities. The company claims it is the first vendor to provide modular private cloud infrastructure with AI-powered automation, network virtualisation, and data mobility spanning both private and public clouds. The offerings also include support for a complete set of runtimes and AI frameworks, and multi-cloud services for IT operations, data protection, and sustainability reporting. All these features are accessible through a single, unified control plane powered by HPE GreenLake.

The company argues that its comprehensive approach reduces the risks associated with relying on multiple vendors, making it particularly attractive for enterprises. In financial terms, HPE estimates that enterprises can realise up to 5x total cost of ownership (TCO) savings when partnering with HPE to modernise their IT estates.

This new virtualisation capability was previewed at the HPE Discover 2024 event. It will initially be available as part of HPE Private Cloud Business Edition in the second half of 2024.