Virtualization Slideshow: Sun xVM VirtualBox 2.2 Is a Tempting Alternative to VMware Fare

The no-cost Sun xVM VirtualBox tool is a good system for putting multiple virtual machines on a desktop or notebook system for developers and other IT pros. New in this version is the ability to export and import virtual appliances that are built to the Open Virtualization Format specification, networking features that make it easier to configure guests to communicate with each other while limiting contact with the outside world, and graphics enhancements and access to 3D hardware acceleration. As a challenger to VMware's Workstation (and to the no-cost VMware Server product), the new version of VirtualBox is an even more tempting alternative for cash-strapped IT users. However, the tool does lack the management capabilities and finesse of kingpin VMware's offerings.