Brief: Cisco's Tail-f Acquisition Is Good News For Your Flexible Service Ambitions

On June 17, 2014, Cisco announced its acquisition of Tail-f Systems for $175 million in cash and retention incentives. The acquisition helps Cisco deliver on a virtual network infrastructure vision very similar to that defined by Forrester in its December 12, 2011, "Virtual Network Infrastructure" report. Businesses need their networks to extend private cloud capabilities to all data centers, seamlessly incorporate public cloud services (as needed), and connect their users with the best business tools. Having an infrastructure automatically mesh internal and external resources allows your business to be just as dynamic as the customer your company serves. These customers expect their own customized product or service wherever they are located, at the time they demand it. This report helps you understand the implications of Cisco's announcement and the importance of using Forrester's virtual network infrastructure (VNI) framework as you design and build out your future business technology services.