Computing giant Hewlett-Packard is looking to grow its network virtualization business, announcing a distributed cloud network platform based on software-defined networking technology. The SDN-based solution targets service providers and large organizations.
HP said the service will allow customers to automatically deploy “secure cloud networks” across a distributed infrastructure “in minutes,” as well as providing service providers with greater control of network assets using network function virtualization.
HP has aggressively targeted the SDN and NFV space, recently announcing plans to acquire open source software provider Eucalyptus for an undisclosed amount. Eucalyptus specializes in software for building private and hybrid enterprise cloud platforms.
HP also recently joined Wind River’s Titanium Cloud partner program, which will see HP work to include validating Wind River’s network function virtualization software solution running across HP’s ProLiant servers for applications operating in the NFV space.
HP earlier this year said it plans to invest more than a billion dollars in software-based solutions that have the potential to replace HP servers and other hardware. The company said the investments would center on OpenStack, with HP’s platform in the space dubbed Helion.
“We’ve said before that we believe the future of the cloud is open source, and this transaction underscores our deep commitment to helping customers build enterprise-class, open clouds their way,” said Fink following the Eucalyptus announcement. “We’ve already seen significant momentum since launching HP Helion and have put in place an outstanding team. I’m confident that Marten, a fellow open source devotee, will continue to build out the HP Helion portfolio into the enterprise cloud offering of choice.”
The move comes as HP recently announced plans to split its operations, spinning off its consumer-facing computing and printer business from its enterprise-focused operations, which will result in approximately 5,000 job cuts. The company’s consumer-facing business will be known as HP Inc., while the rest of its operations will be under the Hewlett-Packard Enterprise banner.
The latest cuts come on the heels of an announced 11,000 to 16,000 cuts tied to its server, storage, PC and software divisions.
