Dell Contracted For XML Networking Server

Dell has been hired to build a customized networking server by a software firm specializing in XML and SOA for large-scale customers.

Ireland-based Vordel said that it has contracted out Dell's Industrial Solutions Group to preload its VX software in appliances assembled in Dell's manufacturing facilities. Vordel specializes in XML applications that enterprises can use to govern their Web service usage and monitor service performance.

At the heart of the network server will be VX software, which is an option for both the Vordel XML Gateway and Vordel XML Firewall software. VX consists of Vordel's XML acceleration and parallelization software as well as VXA, on a hardened pre-integrated Dell server line. In addition to XML acceleration, the VX platform also features Web-based and command-line administration, cryptographic acceleration, and a RAID disk array.

"This is the perfect relationship between two leading players in their respective fields of expertise," Vordel CEO Vic Morris said in a statement. "We will leverage Dell's supply chain expertise and manufacturing infrastructure to enable the fast delivery of fully configured rack-mountable Vordel XML Gateways and XML Firewalls to support the growing demand for SOA appliances."

Vordel said it's hoping to use the preinstalled approach to build on its customer base, which includes Allianz, Badenia, British American Tobacco, Ericsson, European Union, Fortis, Mazda, Telefonica, Telecom Italia Mobile, and various government agencies.

The partnership also is beneficial to Dell, which is hoping to sell more pre-integrated software servers to augment its current enterprise-focused lineup.

"This announcement today with Vordel is another example of Dell's innovative approach of working with companies to enable them to achieve greater supply chain efficiencies, enhanced global support, and ultimately, offer significant value to their customer base," said Katherine Bennett, a director in Dell's EMEA Industrial Solutions Group.

Dell opened the European branch of its Industrial Solutions Group in June. The group has been targeting a range of potential customers in industries including medical equipment, network devices, industrial automation, safety, and security. The European gaming and digital cinema sectors, in particular, offer significant opportunities for Dell ISG, the company said over the summer.