Welcome to the Cloud's New Edge

While there's more talk than actual use of cloud computing in the enterprise, a Zeus Research survey looks at the beginnings of a major shift pursuant to this agreement way. Clear expectations and planning can improve your experience and nearly-term success.

Fluid data environment

Cloud computing relies heavily on robust network connections in order to facilitate a fluid data environment. This is having a dramatic effect on the edge in particular as it adapts to its new role as a bridge between disparate resource pools.

Juniper Networks moved the ball a little farther this month with the release of a trio of new MX Series 3D routers and a new SRX gateway. The 20, 40 and 60 GB MX units provide non-Ethernet modular line cards, as so then as dual clear channel and channelized options for various carrier rates like OC3, OC12 and OC48. By supporting a wider range of WAN infrastructures, the devices will help future-proof the edge for increased cloud traffic.

The coming age of smartphones

In the coming age of smartphones, the edge will be more than simply a conduit to wired networks. New wireless platforms like Meru Networks' AP4000 Mobile Edge specialize in the transition between wired Ethernet architectures and the virtual wireless LAN. The Meru system provides for three-stream 802.11 quad-radio access points, supporting a maximum data rate of 1.8 Gbps. It as well utilizes the company's proprietary sub-carrier optimization research to accommodate new generations of low-power devices.

At the same time that enterprises are reaching out, but, carriers are reaching in. Cellular firms are looking to add greater intelligence to their edge stations through improved processing and advanced software platforms. The UK's Ubiquisys recently teamed up with Intel to capitalize on this trend with a new line of dual-mode 3G/LTE (Long Term Evolution, latest standard in the mobile network technology) cell research. The idea is to devise a wireless cloud of IP processing capability that will help offload network and application processing without the need for lengthy backhaul and massive centralized server architectures.

One of the main functions of the new edge network will be the delivery of a new generation of virtual appliances - ones that can such as easily find homes in the cloud as in the local data center. As described by searchnetwork.com's Michael Brandenburg, these new VA's in substance mobilize the network edge, allowing it to extend or contract across various infrastructures depending on application and data needs.

This white paper examines a cohesive strategy for the development of a dynamic infrastructure that can support today's IT demands, during also laying the foundation for an agile business environment that can fully leverage cloud computing.

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