Amazon Web Services (AWS) has taken a significant leap in cloud technology by introducing Amazon Elastic VMware Service (EVS), a VMware-as-a-Service (VMware-aaS) offering.
This new service enables organizations to run VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF) directly within their Amazon Virtual Private Cloud (VPC). The announcement comes ahead of AWS re 2024, where the preview will officially be launched.
A Natural Progression in the AWS-VMware Partnership
After nearly eight years of collaboration between AWS and VMware, the launch of Amazon EVS reflects their shared commitment to enhancing the VMware experience on AWS.
Steven Jones, General Manager of Commercial Applications with EC2, highlighted customer demand as a key driver.
“In hundreds of VMware-related conversations, customers repeatedly emphasize the need for more options to streamline running VMware workloads on AWS,” Jones shared.
Simplifying VMware Workloads on AWS
Amazon EVS is designed to address critical challenges in migrating and modernizing VMware workloads.
The service allows businesses to use their existing VCF licenses to deploy VMware environments directly on AWS, simplifying the migration process.
Features of Amazon EVS include:
- Easy Migration: Transition workloads without changes to IP addresses or operational processes.
- Quick Deployment: Guided configuration and automated setup enable deployment within hours.
- No Staff Retraining: Existing VMware skills suffice, minimizing operational disruptions.
Unlocking Agility and Cost Savings
Amazon EVS integrates seamlessly with native AWS capabilities, offering scalability, agility, and cost-efficiency. Jones emphasized that customers can enjoy the benefits of AWS without refactoring or re-platforming their applications.
By running VMware workloads alongside other AWS applications, organizations can streamline operations and improve overall management.
VCF’s license portability ensures smooth integration with the AWS ecosystem, making it easier for businesses to modernize their IT infrastructure.
Addressing Customer Needs and Concerns
The launch of Amazon EVS arrives amid broader industry discussions surrounding VMware’s future, especially following its acquisition by Broadcom a year ago.
The acquisition has sparked concerns over pricing and product bundling, with some customers expressing frustration at rising costs.
Despite these challenges, the collaboration between AWS and VMware showcases a strong commitment to providing value-driven solutions for enterprise customers.
Amazon EVS positions itself as a practical choice for businesses looking to migrate to the cloud without disrupting their existing workflows.
Availability and Future Prospects
The preview of Amazon EVS will debut at AWS re 2024, but details about its general availability remain undisclosed. As the cloud landscape continues to evolve, Amazon EVS could play a pivotal role in driving VMware workload migrations to AWS.
With its focus on simplicity, agility, and cost savings, Amazon EVS has the potential to attract enterprises seeking to modernize their operations without compromising efficiency or performance.
