Network News: Riverbed, Cisco, Broadcom

Here’s our review of some of today’s noteworthy links for the networking sector of the data center industry:

Riverbed introduces new Steelhead models.  Riverbed Technology (RVBD) announced new Steelhead models, the Steelhead 150 appliance and Virtual Steelhead 150, as part of its comprehensive wide area network (WAN) optimization product suite. The new models allow organizations to deploy Steelhead appliances in the form factor most appropriate for their locations and needs, from the need to connect to thousands of ATMs, to rural branches that have just a few users at each location. "Many enterprises have made their initial investments in WAN optimization to achieve branch office server consolidation and reduced WAN bandwidth costs," states Joe Skorupa, VP, Distinguished Analyst at Gartner Research. "However, the increasing use of dynamic browser-based applications like SharePoint and introduction of unified communications and collaboration applications and virtual desktops will require enterprises to evaluate and deploy acceleration technologies in a variety of sizes and form factors to achieve greater performance across their entire infrastructure." In addition, the new Steelhead appliance models provide robust WAN optimization solutions for locations in emerging markets that require low-cost flexible deployment models.

Cisco to acquire Truviso.  Cisco (CSCO) announced its intent to acquire privately held Truviso, Inc.  Based in Foster City, Calif., Truviso provides scalable, real-time network data analysis and reporting software. Truviso’s software analytics further strengthens Cisco’s network management platform, Cisco Prime, with the core technology to gather and analyze streaming data.  “Customers want to be able to tap into and better analyze the enormous volume of data traversing their networks to identify ways to enhance services and generate new revenue opportunities,” said Jamie Lerner, vice president and general manager, Cisco Network Management Technology Group.  “Embedding Truviso’s real time business intelligence into the network will help customers unlock these capabilities at the speed of the network.”

Broadcom introduces high density 100G switch.  Broadcom (BRCM)  introduced the BCM88650 series, a high density 100 gigabit Ethernet (GbE) switching solution, which enables the design of switching platforms with densities up to 4,000 100GbE ports. The BCM88650 system on chip (SoC) combines the features and functionality of a complete line card into a single chip. Large data centers with thousands of servers require 100 Gbps network connectivity in the core to the edge, while large service provider networks require high density core switching platforms with 100 Gbps interfaces. The BCM88650 features integrated advanced packet classification, deep-buffer traffic manager, and a cell based fabric interface. "100GbE and greater density line cards help provide the network bandwidth demanded by video traffic and mobile applications," said Jag Bolaria, Senior Analyst, Linley Group. "Large data centers with thousands of servers require 100 Gbps connectivity throughout the network while service provider networks require edge/core switching platforms with dense 100 Gbps interfaces. Broadcom's newest 100GbE SoC series will further strengthen the company's position as a leading supplier, delivering the broadest range of silicon solutions for next-generation high-performance networks." All devices are now sampling with production volume slated for the second half of 2012.