If your business runs on servers or virtual machines, chances are you’ve heard of VMware — or maybe your IT provider manages it behind the scenes.

But in 2024 and 2025, things have changed. VMware has gone through pricing hikes and product changes (after being acquired by Broadcom), and for many small to medium businesses in Australia, it’s no longer the best fit.

So what’s the solution? Do you need to rip out your infrastructure? Can you do cheaper, simpler things instead?

Short answer: yes — and you don’t have to be a technophobe to understand what they are.

Here are 3 amazing alternatives to VMware that make sense for Aussie SMBs — and what they actually mean for your business.

1. Nutanix – All-in-One Simplicity That Just Works

Nutanix is among the top VMware alternatives, offering what’s known as hyperconverged infrastructure — in simple terms, it combines all your servers, storage, and virtual machines into a easy-to-manage platform.

Why it’s good for small businesses:

• Makes your IT setup easier — less hardware pieces, less to relocate
• Supports virtual machines such as VMware but at reduced ongoing costs
• Simple to manage by your IT provider or internal personnel
• Excellent support and adaptability as your business expands

Microsoft Hyper-V – Built Into Windows Server

If your company already has Microsoft applications (such as Microsoft 365, Office, or Windows Server), Hyper-V can be a very good choice. It’s a virtualisation system that’s already included in most Windows Server versions.

Why it’s a good option:

• Already included in Windows Server
• Supported well by Australian IT professionals
• Improved performance for executing common business applications
• Easy to deploy with existing Microsoft infrastructure

Best for:

Organisations already using Windows Server, or those looking for a cheaper option to virtualise machines or server-based applications.

3. Scale Computing – Simple, Reliable, and Made for SMBs

Scale Computing Platform (SC//Platform) is designed specifically for small to medium businesses that require easy, reliable virtualisation without the hassle.

Why businesses love it:

• All-in-one solution: virtualisation + storage + backup
• Simple setup and easy to manage
• In-built disaster recovery and high availability features

So… Should You Replace VMware?

Don’t panic — but if:

• Your VMware renewal cost took your breath away
• Your IT firm advises you VMware’s changing
• You’re running older hardware that needs an upgrade

…it’s the perfect time to consider a switch.

More recent platforms like Nutanix, Hyper-V, and Scale Computing offer better value, easier complexity, and more flexibility — especially for Australian businesses that can’t afford a big IT department within.

Not Sure What You’re Running? We Can Help.
ou don’t need to know the ins and outs of virtual machines or hypervisors. That’s our job.

Corepulse IT Solutions offers assistance to small to medium Australian companies to simplify their IT — for example, moving off expensive legacy platforms like VMware.

Or get in touch for a quick chat — no jargon, no pressure

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