With Network Edge, enterprises can deploy virtual network services closest to users, clouds, and networks in minutes without a physical data centre deployment or hardware requirements.

Equinix counts Cisco, CloudGenix, Fortinet, Juniper Networks, Palo Alto Networks, Silver Peak (recently acquired by Aruba, a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company), Vera Networks, and VMware as existing VNF vendors.

According to Equinix, the ongoing global chip shortage has accelerated the need to migrate from physical infrastructure to hybrid multi cloud models and services. The sudden resurgence of the Covid-19 pandemic is also a contributing factor as it sees more dispersed employees and customers in different locations, reinforcing the need to put data closer to the user.

Thus, customers are looking to network architecture that is agile, flexible, and easier to deploy and manage.

“Network Edge provides a powerful suite of virtual network services and a compelling value proposition for enterprises to scale globally at a predictable cost,” claims Equinix Australia managing director Guy Danskine.

“The ability to deploy digital-ready infrastructure in minutes is increasingly important for customers, driven by a shift to as-a-service consumption models at the edge of the network. Additionally, by integrating with Equinix Fabric, customers can access an interconnection ecosystem, virtually, extending their reach to potentially thousands of new business partners around the world."

Organisations can now explore new opportunities to build out their cloud infrastructure and leverage geo-redundancy.

“Where cost and accessibility of compute resources may have previously been limiting factors in splitting infrastructure across two metros, Network Edge means all of that can be consistently managed at arm's length,” continues Danskine.

One of the more practical applications of a dual-metro platform, Equinix says, is the implementation of a robust disaster recovery approach. Network Edge eliminates the hardware challenges of physical infrastructure. The ability to do all of that using provides consistent infrastructure across regions.

“We see virtual networking as a very attractive proposition for customers who want to deploy essential digital infrastructure at the edge of the network in just a few clicks, with easy access to the multiple cloud providers,” concludes Danskine.

This first appeared in the subscription newsletter CommsWire on 18 January 2022.