iiNet and Microsoft aim virtual server deal at small business

Stan Beer
Thursday, 17 February 2011 18:38

IT Industry - Strategy

Australia's self proclaimed "number two" ISP has sought to capitalise on the growing cloud services market for small business by announcing a deal with Microsoft to provide virtual private servers for businesses that want to host their applications online.

The deal will involve iiNet providing the storage infrastructure and broadband services using Microsoft's web server software and is clearly aimed at the small business market.

Steve Harley, iiNet's General Manager Business, said with small businesses relying on websites and web applications more than ever before, a virtual private server (VPS) provides some great advantages and cost savings.

'Whether it's used for developing complex websites or a new mobile application, a VPS will provide developers with a dedicated platform to build applications free from restrictions typically found on a shared hosting environment,' Mr Harley said.

Philip Goldie, Director of the Server and Tools Business Group at Microsoft Australia, said: 'Microsoft is delighted to be partnering with iiNet to bring this comprehensive set of services to its customers. It's not only end users that will benefit greatly from this partnership - the developer community is set to gain many advantages too.'

'As the most widely used Web platform in the market, our Web server software offers support for a variety of web application frameworks. Support for open source applications and tools extends the platform further - providing a seamless experience for Web developers,' Mr Goldie said.

'Our partnership with Microsoft demonstrates our commitment to the IT community by providing them with the best possible environment at a great price point,' Mr Harley said.

iiNet's Virtual Private Servers will start at $29.95 per month.