GURGAON, INDIA: Extreme Networks, Inc. launched BlackDiamond 8900-series modules for the BlackDiamond 8800 series switch.

This purpose-built enterprise architecture for next generation data centres enables 10 gigabit Ethernet, up to 582 10 gigabit Ethernet ports in a single rack, while delivering energy efficiency and compelling value.

The increased growth of Ethernet services and resource intensive applications such as high definition video, Web 2.0 social platforms and UC collaboration, coupled with the trend for virtualization, server consolidation and IT outsourcing, are driving demands for highly scalable 10 gigabit Ethernet networks in data centres and managed hosting facilities.

Further, the trend towards more nimble, easy-to-manage cloud computing environments requires scalable networks that are easy to integrate and automate, as data centres leverage existing network assets.

Extreme Networks BlackDiamond 8900-series modules upgrade the BlackDiamond 8800 platform with a 3.8 terabit switching fabric. Featuring modular network operating system, ExtremeXOS, the BlackDiamond 8800 series switches provide quick integration and automation of network environments via universal port.
Also enabled are XML, CLI and SNMP interfaces through EPICenter, a full-featured network management tool. This provides customers with a flexible Ethernet networking and management portfolio of tightly integrated tools for managing their next generation data centres.

Jon Oltsik, principal analyst, Enterprise Strategy Group, said: "Organizations today are thinking about a few key things concerning their data centre, including price/performance for their transition to 10 gigabit, energy efficiency and the consistency and ease-of-operation of their total solution. With today's announcement, Extreme Networks is providing a compelling solution that gives customers a high performance and cost-effective data centre solution."

The BlackDiamond 8900-series modules will be available this quarter.The management switch module, BlackDiamond 8900-MSM128 comes at a list price of $27,495, BlackDiamond 8900-10G24X-c module at $49,495 and BlackDiamond 8900-G96T-c module comes at $27,495 in Asia Pacific.