Hewlett-Packard buys iSCSI storage specialist LeftHand

HP has acquired LeftHand Networks, which has so far been privately owned, for $360 million. The vendor specialises in software which allows standard servers – like HP's ProLiant series – to be integrated into storage area networks via SCSI. LeftHand's technology will allow small and medium-size companies to expand their storage capacities in a cost effective way. The possibility to include individual departments or remote subsidiaries in central storage area networks (SANs) makes the portfolio of LeftHand Networks an attractive addition to Hewlett-Packard's own range of storage solutions.

LeftHand will be incorporated in the HP StorageWorks division within the Technology Solutions Group at HP. "The acquisition of LeftHand Networks significantly expands our storage portfolio, enabling HP to deliver customers an expanded suite of storage functionality", explains senior vice president and general manager of the StorageWorks division Dave Roberson. This includes cloning, data replication as well as backup and disaster recovery operations for remote locations, says the press release.

LeftHand Networks was founded in 1999, has its headquarters in Boulder, Colorado, currently employs 215 staff and co-operates with more than 500 sales partners worldwide. Under the HP banner, LeftHand products will in future be available to a far greater number of specialised retailers. According to HP, around 3000 customers are already using LeftHand technology worldwide.

(jbe)