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Citrix XenServer Reviews

Name: Citrix XenServer
Brand: Citrix
Rating: 4.0 (55 reviews)

4.0 out of 5

55 reviews
82% willing to recommend

What is Citrix XenServer?

Citrix XenServer provides virtualization with high availability and robust security, offering seamless VM migration and centralized management through XenCenter. Its expansive compatibility and integration enhance its appeal, particularly for SMBs.

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Citrix XenServer is the #11 ranked solution in best Server Virtualization Software. PeerSpot users give Citrix XenServer an average rating of 8.0 out of 10. Citrix XenServer is most commonly compared to VMware vSphere: Citrix XenServer vs VMware vSphere. Citrix XenServer is popular among the large enterprise segment, accounting for 51% of users researching this solution on PeerSpot. The top industry researching this solution are professionals from a computer software company, accounting for 13% of all views.

Helped 865,295 peers since 2012

Featured Citrix XenServer reviews

Jörg Köhler

Owner at AvalisNT AG

When it comes to optimization, that's one of the weaker points of Citrix XenServer, especially regarding disk management, which is somewhat clumsy. Backup-related issues and disk management should be improved. Especially concerning backup, as discussions with Veeam engineers about Citrix XenServer backup strategy indicate there might not be a solution from Veeam soon. License optimization is not such a significant problem, but licenses are quite complicated. Vendors constantly invent new license models, making it difficult to order the correct licenses needed. There is not a big difference between Citrix and VMware products because Citrix can implement Windows and Linux anyway.

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VivekKumar10

Co-Founder at Virajo

In the past, we utilized the live migration feature in Citrix XenServer, but not in this project. This is a new, fresh deployment, so there is no live migration. The support of heterogeneous resource pool in Citrix XenServer depends on the deployment and customer requirements. If a customer requires heterogeneous deployment, we accommodate that. Generally, Citrix XenServer goes in straightforward vanilla deployment because it is majorly used for Citrix farms. Very few customers use it for other products or applications. Intelligent performance optimization is available in this product, but very few customers use it, and those who do aren't using it extensively. I cannot comment extensively on this feature at present.

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Tonatiuh Torres Zamorano

Solutions Manager at ICSI

I find Citrix XenServer valuable for small to medium-sized businesses. It is user-friendly and easy to deploy, making it an attractive option. When included with Citrix virtualization solutions, it provides a comprehensive package with existing licenses. Despite being effective for small to medium infrastructures, it may not be the best hypervisor for larger deployments.

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Citrix XenServer mindshare

As of August 2025, the mindshare of Citrix XenServer in the Server Virtualization Software category stands at 4.8%, up from 4.5% compared to the previous year, according to calculations based on PeerSpot user engagement data.

Server Virtualization Software

PeerResearch reports based on Citrix XenServer reviews

Type	Title	Date
Category	Server Virtualization Software	Aug 20, 2025	Download
Product	Reviews, tips, and advice from real users	Aug 20, 2025	Download
Comparison	Citrix XenServer vs Proxmox VE	Aug 20, 2025	Download
Comparison	Citrix XenServer vs VMware vSphere	Aug 20, 2025	Download
Comparison	Citrix XenServer vs Hyper-V	Aug 20, 2025	Download

Title	Rating	Mindshare	Recommending
VMware vSphere	4.4	16.4%	94%	456 interviews Add to research
Proxmox VE	4.3	17.0%	98%	62 interviews Add to research

Valuable Features

Citrix XenServer offers salient features such as cost-effectiveness, high availability, and efficient resource management. It integrates well with Windows-based management applications, supporting live migration and seamless backup. Users appreciate its user-friendly interface, stability, scalability, and compatibility with various operating systems. The ability to virtualize servers and create virtual machine templates enhances productivity. Its open-source nature and straightforward deployment make it a valuable choice for small to medium-sized businesses seeking reliable virtualization.

"I haven't had any significant issues with Citrix XenServer installations over the last 10-15 years."
"Licensing with Citrix XenServer is very cost-effective, and organizations save substantial money because competing solutions, such as VMware, cost double or triple."
"The most valuable feature is transferring and sharing applications that allow users to move files between devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers without needing USB cables, internet connections, or data usage."

Room for Improvement

Citrix XenServer requires enhancements in automatic startup options, memory usage efficiency, and high availability features. Its management console lacks web-based accessibility and only supports Windows. Backup solutions and integration with third-party tools and Linux compatibility need development. Licensing costs are high and community support is limited. Networking, storage management, and user interface improvements are needed. Enhanced security, performance, and customer support response times would benefit users significantly.

"Something that could be improved in Citrix XenServer is its centralized management since the Citrix XenServer Center should be deployed in Windows."
"There appear to be very few engineers at Citrix who understand the problems, and we experience considerable delays in support."
"While Citrix Hypervisor remains a reliable virtualization platform, several areas could be improved to better meet enterprise needs."

ROI

Management appreciates Citrix XenServer for its significant ROI, achieving cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency. Virtualization reduces hardware and environmental expenses. Users achieve satisfaction, enhancing their experience. Although ROI isn't simple to quantify, benefits like server consolidation, energy savings, and streamlined IT management support the investment. The platform's stability and established reputation maintain client loyalty. Even with substantial licensing, deployment, and ongoing costs, organizations realize tangible improvements over traditional environments.

Pricing

Enterprise users find Citrix XenServer pricing appealing due to its cost-effectiveness compared to competitors like VMware. The solution offers a free version, while paid versions provide additional features and commercial support. The licensing model, though generally straightforward, may become more expensive with advanced editions or cloud licenses. Organizations appreciate the affordability for server virtualization, while the comprehensive commercial support is highly rated. Some users note concerns over price increases and licensing transparency.

"Citrix Hypervisor can be fairly expensive."
"Citrix Hypervisor is expensive."
"We used it only for some desktop licenses, so the pricing is great. We used the free licenses for server virtualization."

Popular Use Cases

Citrix XenServer is used by organizations for virtualization, server virtualization, desktop virtualization, and cloud automation. It supports major operating systems like Windows and Linux, providing infrastructure for virtual machines and VDI scenarios. Users find it cost-effective, particularly for replacing VMware and for applications like Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops. It serves as the primary computing platform for enterprise software, ERP systems, and supporting Citrix worker resources, enabling centralized application delivery and management.

Service and Support

Citrix XenServer customer service varies, with some experiencing expert assistance and speedy relocation to qualified engineers, while others find support responses slow with reseller involvement. Technical support is often knowledgeable and helpful, but response times and quality can differ, particularly when dealing with older versions or reseller challenges. Many users report satisfaction with community resources and the tiered support options available based on subscription, though some encounter difficulties due to inadequate local support.

Deployment

Citrix XenServer's initial setup is simple, with most reporting it can be completed quickly, often in less than five minutes. Many find it straightforward and easy, although complex hardware requirements can pose challenges. Advanced configurations, like shared storage and fail-over design, require planning and expertise. Small installations often take a few hours, while larger environments may need days. Those with IT knowledge find the installation manageable, especially with support from Citrix or VMware experience.

Scalability

Citrix XenServer is highly scalable and fits well with both small and large enterprises. Users have successfully expanded environments from a few nodes to larger configurations. While some mention limitations in disk management and minor hardware integration challenges, most express satisfaction with its scalability and ease of adding resources. Citrix XenServer supports enterprise-level growth, though some users note VMware has scaling advantages in larger settings. It integrates efficiently with existing infrastructure.

Stability

Citrix XenServer demonstrates impressive stability for many users, with numerous reports of minimal issues. While occasional bugs occur, they tend to be rare. Many users appreciate its robustness, citing smooth operation, reliable performance, and successful updates. However, some experience glitches or instability, especially with older hardware versions or without needed manpower. Regular updates, responsive support, and best practices contribute to its overall stability. Many users rate it very highly for reliability and performance.

These insights are based on the in-depth reviews provided by peers to help you make a better buying decision.

Download our Citrix XenServer Buyer's Guide for additional reliable information.

Review data by company size

By reviewers

By visitors reading reviews

Top industries

By visitors reading reviews

Computer Software Company

13%

Manufacturing Company

Educational Organization

Comms Service Provider

Financial Services Firm

Government

University

Healthcare Company

Construction Company

Energy/Utilities Company

Retailer

Media Company

Non Profit

Real Estate/Law Firm

Insurance Company

Performing Arts

Wholesaler/Distributor

Outsourcing Company

Hospitality Company

Recreational Facilities/Services Company

Pharma/Biotech Company

Legal Firm

Aerospace/Defense Firm

Transportation Company

Logistics Company

Consumer Goods Company

Compare Citrix XenServer with alternative products

Learn more about Citrix XenServer

Citrix XenServer is recognized for its user-friendly virtualization capabilities, facilitating dynamic scalability and efficient resource management. It supports a wide range of operating systems and integrates with Citrix solutions for improved operations. Businesses benefit from its affordability and ease of deployment. Despite its strengths, users seek improvements in third-party tool integration, network and backup management, and storage flexibility. High costs, limited Linux support, system complexity, technical support, and hardware compatibility remain challenges. An updated and intuitive interface is in demand for more seamless operations across platforms.

What are the key features of Citrix XenServer?

User-Friendly Virtualization: Simplifies virtualization operations with efficient management tools.
High Availability: Ensures continuous access to virtualized resources.
Robust Security: Protects virtual environments with comprehensive security protocols.
Seamless VM Migration: Facilitates easy migration of virtual machines across environments.
Centralized Management: XenCenter provides centralized control for resource management.
Dynamic Scalability: Supports scaling of resources as per business requirements.
Real-Time Performance Monitoring: Enables monitoring and optimizing of system performance actively.
Unlimited Virtual Machines: Offers the capacity for deploying numerous virtual machines without limitations.

What benefits and ROI can users expect?

Cost Efficiency: Competitive pricing model reduces virtualization costs.
Comprehensive Virtualization: Complete solution for desktop and server virtualization needs.
Ease of Deployment: Quick and straightforward setup process minimizes downtime.
Integration with Citrix Solutions: Enhances functionality with existing Citrix technologies.

In diverse industries, Citrix XenServer is leveraged for server and desktop virtualization, cloud automation, and infrastructure management. Many deploy it for virtual desktop infrastructure, application delivery, on-premises data centers, and to support Citrix application delivery like XenApp and XenDesktop. Enterprises migrating from VMware often find Citrix XenServer cost-efficient for these applications, serving as a main computing platform for enterprise applications including ERP systems and SQL Servers.

Citrix XenServer was previously known as Hypervisor.