HP ProCurve hopes to open doors with switch

Four new products are coming to market that could help resellers boost security business

Hewlett-Packard (HP) ProCurve has launched a range of “door-opening” new products for resellers to grab additional business.

HP’s networking arm has released four new products that it has claimed will enable existing VARs to converse with their customer base and raise issues of security and network assess.

The InterConnect Fabric Switch 8100fl is intended to increase network speed and resiliency, as issues of security rise on firms’ minds.

The switch has been developed using technologies from last year’s Riverstone Networks acquisition. ProCurve Manager Plus plug-ins – Identity Driven Manager 2.0 and Mobility Manager 1.0 – will address issues of security and assess control.

The vendor has also released Switch 26008-PWR for SME offices looking towards scaled down voice over IP adoption.

“This is an up-sell opportunity and a door opener that can be delivered now,” claimed Jon Weatherall, HP ProCurve country manager for the UK and Ireland.

“In addition, this is a chance for resellers to discuss with customers how they can build on a secure multi-service network. Resellers can add more consultancy and shift customer focus towards reliance and core functions on networks,” he added.

Weatherall said that issues of security and network assess have risen on corporate thinking, with any firm with more than 20 to 30 users able to benefit from the new releases. “We aim to enhance these products over the years and we see the releases as part of a long-term plan,” he said.

Ashley Snelling, managing director of reseller ADA Networks, said the 8100 switch will follow on from ProCurve’s Adaptive Edge architecture and is part of a large pipeline project.

“It may be easier for resellers to sell to current ProCurve customers, but whether this is achievable is another matter. The customers still need to ask for a further update to their existing network,” he said.

“The products are still going to need a technical sale, which could be a challenge to larger ProCurve VARs if they sell on price,” added Snelling.