Force10 Networks announced its enterprise switching technology will support IBM’s iDataPlex. iDataPlex more than doubles the number of systems that can run in a single rack while using 40 percent less power and will be aided by the high density and robust functionality of Force10’s Ethernet switches.

“The explosion of web services has created tremendous reliance on the network coupled with the expectation that these services are always available to a demanding user base,” said Marc Randall, CEO at Force10 Networks.  “IBM and Force10 Networks are working together to deliver interoperable solutions that support the large scale data centers of Web 2.0 businesses, which require density and reliability while consuming less power.”

Web 2.0 businesses continue to see their data center capacity grow, fueled by the proliferation of video, social networks and online gaming. In parallel, power costs for these data centers are also growing, leaving these businesses to look for a cost-effective way to add capacity. IBM’s iDataPlex is a customizable, integrated offering that will be delivered to the customer fully wired and networked to simplify deployment. iDataPlex also features innovations in cooling and efficiency that enables it to run without air conditioning and a footprint that is designed for the requirements of Web 2.0 businesses.

Force10 has a strong presence in the Web2.0 community, where its Reliable Networking product portfolio powers the data centers of web-based businesses such as eHarmony, Facebook, DAUM Communications, Shanda Interactive Entertainment and Pando Networks. At the core of these networks, the Force10 E-Series provides the predictable performance and reliability that is critical to ensuring seamless scalability as additional capacity is added.

“Force10’s switching and routing products support IBM’s Cluster 1350, Blue Gene and now iDataPlex solutions,” said Jim Gargan, vice president of modular systems, IBM Systems and Technology Group.  “IBM is looking to technology leaders like Force10 to build an ecosystem of ready-to-use technologies for iDataPlex that will add value for our clients.”

Taking a page from the Internet's model, iDataPlex uses stateless computing to effectively turn many separate computers into a pool of shared resources or “cloud.” When combined with IBM’s “Blue Cloud” initiative, iDataPlex can connect with other machines in a cloud and process portions of enormous applications in parallel, providing rapid response times for functions like image search. 

The Force10 Reliable Networking product portfolio supports advances in reliability, network control and scalability that enable enterprises to lower their total cost of ownership. By building a flexible network that is ready to support emerging and evolving applications, enterprises can optimize their networks for current needs as well as future requirements.