IBM, NetApp turn the heat on EMC

Apr 07, 2005: IBM and NetApp have strengthened their relationship in an attempt to gain more ground on EMC through an original equipment manufacturing agreement that will enable IBM to sell IBM branded solutions based on Network Appliance's NAS, iSCSIS and IP SAN products.

The agreement will also promote the enhanced integration of NetApp applications with IBM Tivoli Storage Manager. In addition, NetApp will position IBM as its preferred supplier of tape systems in its solutions for NetApp customers.

Andy Monshaw, the general manager of IBM storage systems, talked about the current unity between these two companies: "The IBM relationship with Network Appliance is a prime example of how two industry-leading companies, both of whom actively support open standards, can team up to offer information on demand solutions.

"The choice for customers in the management and storage of information could not be more clear - open solutions from IBM and NetApp that provide systems level innovation versus proprietary point solutions from EMC."

Dan Warmenhoven, the Network Appliance chief executive officer, added: "This relationship is really about pairing innovative NetApp storage solutions with IBM's global market reach, service organisation and technology portfolio.

"We expect this relationship to be mutually beneficial long-term as we roll out our joint solutions over the coming year."

IDC research considers NetApp to be the market leader in both the NAS and iSCSI market, so this agreement will benefit IBM enormously.

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