Redstone creates cloud over Cambridge

VAR expands offering with launch of cloud computing service aimed at the city's public organisations and high-growth businesses

Redstone has unveiled Cambridge Cloud aimed at the city's public organisations and high-growth businesses, as it expands its Cambridge Metropolitan Network.

The VAR claims that by connecting to Cambridge Cloud, any organisation in the area will be able to reduce its IT, data storage, software and telephony costs, taking advantage of technology such as virtualisation, UC and video-conferencing.

Redstone intends to extend the reach of its Metro Network - a series of optical fibre 'rings' that supply a secure LAN for businesses - to new parts of the city and neighbouring towns like Ely. The network is also connected to the national broadband network and linked to Redstone's secure Cambridge Datacentre which powers Cambridge Cloud.

Larry Dutton, head of network development for the Cambridge Metro Network at Redstone, said: "Most organisations are considering cloud computing, with Cambridge particularly switched on to its benefits, but there is often a worry about data security and the additional cost of connection can be high. Cambridge Cloud is already integrated with the Metro Network, providing both security and ease of connection for our customers.

"With Cambridge Cloud and our established network and presence in the city we can help local organisations make the switch to cloud easily and save money, while keeping their data secure and locally managed," Dutton added.

John Stanton, director of IT services at local firm Peters Elworthy & Moore, said: "As we continue to expand our business locally, Redstone's Cambridge Metro Network provides assurance of easy integration and continually high-quality connectivity. Through Redstone, Cambridge has a highly advanced network that organisations like us can patch into and benefit from very easily and we're pleased to see its potential grow through the addition of cloud services."