SMEs get virtual

Sun Microsystems has created two hardware and software bundles as part of an initiative to drive server virtualisation downstream into the SME space, reports CRN.com.

The solutions pair Sun Fire X4150, X4250, or X4450 servers and 7210 unified storage systems with VMware ESX, and Sun Fire X4250 server and Sun Storage J4200 systems with Microsoft Hyper-V.

The company says the solutions will allow customers to build an agile IT environment that can quickly meet the changing needs of their businesses through rapid virtual server deployment.

Hitachi Data Systems has unveiled its centralised storage and data management system, Hitachi Backup in a Box, for businesses of all sizes, according to snsEurope.

For the first time, Hitachi's extensive storage experience and unparalleled innovation combine with the solutions of Commvault and Zycko to offer SMEs enterprise class storage and data protection features in cost-effective bundles.

"Ever increasing data growth is demanding multiple servers and highly complex backup operations that can be a strain on a company's finances. Though a challenge for all organisations, they are particularly acute for SMEs, where budget and resource may be less readily available," says Philippe Foss'e, VP of channels for EMEA at Hitachi Data Systems.

Telecommunications spending in Malaysia is expected to remain resilient this year, according to IT research firm IDC, and is projected to achieve a moderate growth to US$6.7 billion, despite the slowing economy, reports ZDNet Asia.

Esther Gan, market analyst for IDC Market Research, says: "Malaysia's telecommunications spending, encompassing mobile services, Internet access, corporate data services and fixed telephony, are expected to grow at 4% in 2009."

IDC said the incumbents in Asean will have renewed interest in the SME segment this year.