Citrix has released a new version of its XenServer virtualization platform. XenServer 6.1 enhancements include advanced virtual machine migration, increased vendor compatibility, and automated virtual machine conversion tools.

XenServer 6.1 offers enhanced integration with leading cloud platforms. According to the announcement, direct integration with Apache CloudStack and Citrix CloudPlatform makes it easy to partition firewalls, balance workloads, and prevent attacks on systems in both public and private cloud environments.

XenServer 6.1 also includes new Storage XenMotion technology that lets admins move running virtual machines without the need for shared storage. With Storage XenMotion, live migration occurs using a “shared nothing” architecture, whereby the storage used for the virtual disks can be moved freely within and across pools for optimized storage utilization.

Additionally, the latest version provides the XenServer Conversion Manager tool, which automates batch conversions of VMware virtual machines into XenServer virtual machines.

XenServer 6.1 is available now in four versions – free, Advanced, Enterprise, and Platinum. The free edition of XenServer starts with a 64-bit hypervisor, centralized management, live migration, and conversion tools. All versions of XenServer include XenCenter management and are available on a per server licensing structure with premium editions starting at US$ 1000 per server.