Virtualization vendor Citrix has certified Nutanix’s Virtual Computing Platform to work with its XenDesktop systems, as the software vendor starts the process of accrediting hardware vendors that make instant infrastructure products.

The vendors claim it is the first time that the compatibility of virtual software and hardware has been benchmarked.

Nutanix’s reference architecture was benchmarked using Citrix XenDesktop and Microsoft Hyper-V.

The configuration tests were conducted by Citrix’s virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) experts using simulations of real-world traffic.

Citrix VP of product marketing, desktops and apps Calvin Hsu said that by

benchmarking the compatibility of hardware and software systems of virtualization, the vendors can make construction reassuringly risk free.

Nutanix senior VP of marketing and product management Howard Ting said the point of benchmarking is that VDI projects are notorious for stalling.

The main infrastructure-related barriers to progress are incorrect sizing, storage bottlenecks and the inability to maintain performance as infrastructure grows.

Nutanix claims its webscale architecture overcomes this problem, but tight integration with Citrix XenDesktop helps obviate any teething issues.

As the first converged infrastructure vendor to get validation for its design, Nutanix can reassure data center builders that they can meet their production schedule, Ting said.

“Our joint customers will benefit from fully tested, end-to-end design and scalability,” Ting said.