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September 6, 1999 Intel, IBM Add To Scalability Of Networking Equipment
Processors make updates easier
By Brian Riggs and Eileen Colkin, with Madeleine Acey, TechWeb
IBM's Network Processor and Processor for Network Resources will make it possible to update routers, hubs, and switches through software adjustments rather than via hardware upgrades. Intel's new Internet Exchange Processor (IXP) 1200, based on its Internet Exchange Architecture, lets equipment vendors use reprogrammable silicon and open interfaces to build switches, routers, access devices, and other networking products that are also more flexible and easier to upgrade.
Manufacturers can update existing equipment quickly by reprogramming the processors, adding features that meet users' growing needs to run voice, video, and other media across networks. Currently, vendors must upgrade their networking hardware by developing customized application-specific integrated circuits to support new features such as voice over IP, service quality, and security--an approach that can add 12 to 18 months to the development cycle.
"The Internet is changing every day. How can equipment developers afford to develop something that takes 18 months?" said Mark Christensen, VP and general manager of Intel's network communications group, at last week's Intel Developer's Forum in Palm Springs, Calif. Cabletron will use Intel's IXP1200 to speed the design of SmartSwitch Routers, and offer a wider array of apps and services in its equipment, says P.G. Menon, Cabletron's senior director of product management.
More Than Networking
Intel has been pushing hard to get into the network market. So far this year, it has acquired six networking companies, including server vendor Shiva Corp. Intel said last week it will acquire NetBoost Inc., a developer of networking accelerators, policy-management software, and virtual private network systems for an undisclosed price. The company is developing 13 other silicon components based on its Internet Exchange Architecture.
Intel says it expects to start shipping the processors to manufacturers by year's end; IBM's offerings should be in products by that time.
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ntel and IBM last week unveiled programmable communications processors that could extend the value of IT departments' networking equipment by making those products more scalable and versatile.