Enterprise IT vendor Dell Indiatoday announced Operating System 10 (OS10) designed to introduce new levels of software flexibility and programmability in large-scale data center environments.
Dell said that the OS10 software environment advances the functionality of modern data centers by disaggregating network software.
“Imagine the possibilities with an Android like ecosystem for networking platforms. That is the disruption Dell is unfolding,” said Amandeep Singh, country manager, Dell Networking. “Our customers are empowered to create more efficient and flexible paths across network systems by virtue of software-stack choices, new custom abilities, software flexibility and programmability in large-scale data center environments.”
“OS10 represents an interesting new direction for Dell as it continues to extend and enhance its networking portfolio with innovations in software and hardware,” said Brad Casemore, research director, Datacenter Networks at IDC.
The OS10 platform is designed around new benchmarks for open software modularity so users can create the most efficient and flexible paths across networked systems. OS10 is comprised of a base module and various optional application modules. Now, what had formerly been bundled into tightly-integrated, vendor-specific stacks, has been separated to enhance customer choice, control and programmability.
The OS10 Base Module is available for free and runs a fully-open, unmodified Linux distribution. The OS10 Base Module can leverage the Linux community-based benefits which can help enhance its programmability, portability, and flexibility for the application layer above it.
OS10 can support traditional networking functions (L2/L3 protocols) from Dell as well as numerous third-party, native Linux, and open source applications such as IP, fabric and security services combined with management and automation tools. This allows customers to tailor IT operations for different use case and operational processes.
OS10’s unmodified Linux base provides distinct advantages as customers increasingly look to design applications and data centers across server, storage and networking. While OS10 will have appeal for traditional network operators seeking conventional programming means, the software will also appeal to DevOps communities seeking a consistent, common development environment across server, storage and networking elements.
Nigel Kersten, CIO at Puppet Labs, said: “It provides one common language that can be shared across traditionally siloed organizations – like development, compute, networking and storage – reducing unnecessary complexity, while increasing both speed and availability.”
OS10 from Dell Networking provides the unique flexibility and programmability necessary for a modern cloud provider to innovate and succeed in a fast-changing environment.
“We’re already seeing significant operational benefits from having server-like manageability combined with our server-centric automation tools,” Jason Long, director, Network Architecture & Operations, Joyent.
In March, Dell expects OS10 base module will begin shipping and Dell-developed application modules will enter beta testing for release later in the year.