HP's ProCurve networking group is continuing its assault on Cisco with the launch of a high-end network switch supported by a lifetime warranty.

The ProCurve Switch 8212zl is designed to form the hub of a company's network, connecting in turn to a range of edge switches which hook up the PCs and other clients.

"ProCurve's Adaptive Networks vision gives global companies the flexibility to grow their infrastructure in line with business needs by enabling them to quickly adapt to new applications, fortify network security, increase productivity and reduce complexity," said John McHugh, vice president and general manager of ProCurve.

The switch's lifetime warranty offers next-business-day advanced replacement, depending on location, along with phone and email support. This support is offered as part of the sale price, rather than on a subscription basis.

"Because [the 8212zl is] based on ProCurve architecture, it shares common parts and improved management across devices. Not many vendors offer this," said Matthias Machowinski, directing analyst of enterprise voice and data at Infonetics Research.

"ProCurve is already the number two player in the networking industry, and this should further enhance its position in the marketplace."

The new device boasts a 692Gbps switch capacity on 288Gb ports, and 48 10GbE ports all packed into a nine-RU blade-style chassis.

As with all servers of this level, the 8212zl is hot-swappable and has redundant power, management and fabric systems.

The 8212zl is designed to be highly scalable and is aimed at companies ranging from 500 to 5,000 employees. ProCurve reckons that this should allow it to be competitive in at least 30 per cent of the market.

The base system will come in at about €20,000 and is available now. Beta units have already been sent out to customers.