IBM Releases Virtual Storage Optimizer

IBM has unveiled a new storage solution designed to help organizations take advantage of cloud computing technology in order to significantly reduce their virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) storage needs.

IBM's Virtual Storage Optimizer (VSO) is designed to help organizations reduce their VDI storage overhead by up to 80 percent, based on current results. The VSO is available now as a part of IBM's Virtual Infrastructure Access (VIA) services and is based on an IBM Research-developed algorithm that not only decreases the physical storage needs of virtual desktops, but also provides for faster, more efficient creation of new desktop images, as well as reduced overall energy consumption, according to IBM.

"VSO helps businesses more efficiently manage physical storage requirements and improve utilization rates, energy efficiency, availability, and scalability of critical applications," said Jan Jackman, vice president, End-User Services, IBM Global Technology Services, in a prepared statement. "VSO further extends our ability to help businesses and schools embrace cloud computing models that accommodate employee mobility and enhance end-user productivity."

In addition to the new VDI offerings, IBM has also developed technology and business partnerships with VMware and Desktone. The partnerships are intended to result in a set of solutions for a range of organizations, including government and educational institutions.

About the Author

Chris Riedel is a freelance writer based in Illinois. He can be reached here.

Featured

  • large group of college students sitting on an academic quad

    Student Readiness: Learning to Learn

    Melissa Loble, Instructure's chief academic officer, recommends a focus on 'readiness' as a broader concept as we try to understand how to build meaningful education experiences that can form a bridge from the university to the workplace. Here, we ask Loble what readiness is and how to offer students the ability to 'learn to learn'.

  • Abstract futuristic background with blurry glowing wave and neon lines

    Microsoft Intros 'Cowork' Feature for Copilot, AI Updates

    Microsoft has announced a trio of AI updates, spanning Microsoft 365 Copilot, Security Copilot and Microsoft Foundry.

  • Abstract speed motion blur in vibrant colors

    3 Ed Tech Shifts that Will Define 2026

    The digital learning landscape is entering a new phase defined by rapid advances in artificial intelligence, rising expectations for the student experience, and increasing pressure to demonstrate quality and accountability in online education.

  • glowing crystal ball with network connections

    Tech Outlook 2026: What Higher Ed Tech Leaders Expect this Year

    We asked higher education technology leaders for their predictions on how the tech landscape will change for colleges and universities in the coming year. Here's what they told us.