News
IBM to OEM NetApp’s Storage Solutions
In a move meant to undermine EMC’s dominance as the de facto king of storage systems, IBM announced this week an OEM deal whereby Big Blue will sell IBM-branded storage systems built by Network Appliance (NetApp).
Under the deal, IBM will sell solutions based on NetApp’s network attached storage and iSCSI/IP storage area network offerings, including its NearStore and the NetApp V-Series products.
The move will make IBM NetApp’s largest reseller globally, giving them more reach in terms of the number of countries where the storage firm’s products are sold.
Additionally, the agreement promotes integration of NetApp applications with IBM’s Tivoli Storage Manager. NetApp will also position IBM as its preferred supplier of tape systems in its solutions for customers. IBM and NetApp are also discussing additional strategic moves, the companies said.
About the Author
Stuart J. Johnston has covered technology, especially Microsoft, since February 1988 for InfoWorld, Computerworld, Information Week, and PC World, as well as for Enterprise Developer, XML & Web Services, and .NET magazines.