Microsoft Corp. today announced it has completed the acquisition of Softricity Inc., a leading provider of application virtualization and dynamic streaming technologies. Virtualization is a key technology for reducing the cost and complexity of IT management, and the addition of Softricity is another step in Microsoft�s ongoing strategy to make virtualization more broadly accessible and affordable for customers. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Originally announced on May 22, the acquisition of Softricity helps Microsoft customers reduce costly application management processes, accelerate application and operating system deployments, and create a foundation for a software services infrastructure. Softricity�s application virtualization technology can help significantly reduce the amount of application compatibility testing typically needed when deploying new applications, upgrades and patches. Applications are served centrally and delivered directly to the user�s desktop in an isolated, virtualized image, minimizing application-related alterations to the operating system and compatibility challenges with other applications.

Combined with Softricity�s software streaming functionality, virtualized applications can be dynamically sent over the network, effectively whenever and wherever a user needs them. The approach creates the option of a centrally managed software service in which applications are available when and where needed and are easily updated.