Netsocket Enhances Virtual Edge Solution for MSPs with Automated App Delivery and Virtual Apps

As MSPs look for more efficient and streamlined ways to roll out services and generate revenue, taking advantage of automation is key. Service providers are changing the way they deliver and manage applications as the cloud takes over, and software-defined networking (SDN) is slowly becoming a new way of conducting business.

Netsocket, which specializes in SDN and virtualization, has expanded the features of its Netsocket Virtual Edge solution in an effort to provide these efficiencies to its MSP customers. The company has launched an automated application delivery capability as well as a set of virtual open source and commercial applications (vApps) that extend the functionality of its offering.

Virtual Edge provides cloud-based, automated service creation and the ability to deliver, manage and orchestrate a variety of virtualized apps. The offering virtualizes WAN/LAN edge networking functions like routing, switching, firewalls and tunneling, making it an ideal solution for SMBs and enterprise branch offices. By enabling automated delivery of third-part vApps, MSPs can offer a broad range of services to their customers through their Netsocket installations.

“Netsocket, with its Virtual Edge solution and their new virtual applications, is very well positioned to aid MSPs in making this dynamic transition and presents them with an opportunity to achieve a new business model for themselves and their SMB customers with the benefits of virtualized networking,” said Charles Weaver, CEO of MSPAlliance.

vApps are hosted on the Virtual Edge MicroCloud Server, and include the FortiGate firewall and security solution from Fortinet, the Snorby open source firewall solution, the Unifi WiFi controller from Ubiquiti Networks and the Pandora open source RMM offering. Other apps supported include GENBAND’s QFlex eSBC, the OpenVPN aggregator and client, the FreePBX IP-PBX, Microsoft’s Windows Server 2012 Essentials, the Cacti performance visualization offering and the “Generic” debian Linux VM for MSP-installed apps and tools.

Netsocket is offering an evaluation Pilot Kit with support for one site for a limited time. The kit includes the Virtual Edge software suite, a MicroCloud Server, a MicroCloud Switch, a selection of vApps and first-year software service and support.