Magirus reveals security strategy

Binding: We can provide resellers with total virtualisation solution

Magirus has outlined its vision for secure virtualisation two weeks after axing its standalone security arm.

CRN recently revealed that the distributor was parting company with security divisional head Niall McGrane and was in consultation with the unit’s four remaining staff (Channelweb, 6 November).

Magirus now plans to focus exclusively on security solutions that complement its virtualisation offering.

To that end, it has this morning announced it will continue working with vendors Clearswift, Radware and Stonesoft. Radware, for instance can be employed for ISP and server load balancing for major VMware implementations. The vendors will all sit within its virtualisation arm.

Magirus claimed the virtualisation market is bucking the recessionary trend as firms look to slash hardware and energy costs.

However, the distributor said there was a clear need to lock down virtual environments due to the security challenges they create, such as management and control issues, and availability, integrity and confidentiality of data.

Andrew Binding, vice president for the Northern Europe region at Magirus, said: “By 2010 some 30 percent of non-desktop IT infrastructure is expected to be virtualised.

“The market for securing these virtualised infrastructures represents a significant business opportunity. We can help our resellers provide a total solution in terms of the technology, consultancy and professional services needed to capitalise on this high growth opportunity.”

Magirus will kick of its secure virtualisation push with a one-day seminar in December exploring how virtual networks and data centres can be secured. It will include presentations from Clearswift, Radware and Stonesoft as well as Magirus consultants.