Windstream Hosted Solutions Launches Second-Generation Cloud Computing Platform

The second generation cloud project is an exciting blend of technology enhancements to the Windstream cloud services offering. Windstream Hosted Solutions offers a "Hi-Touch" consultative approach while providing robust self-service capabilities through the use of VMware vCloud Director, custom RTO/RPO capabilities utilizing NetApp SnapMirror, EMC RecoverPoint, all working together with VCE Vblock compute. These capabilities, combined with the power of the Windstream network, provide a best-in-class cloud computing experience for customers.

Windstream Hosted Solutions introduced cloud capacity at its Charlotte facility in response to the increased demand from prospects and clients for hybrid cloud connectivity. The company noted that while some customers do not need to be physically near their cloud implementation, others have requested the flexibility to tie in colocation and other backend systems that are still best suited for physical servers. With this trend continuing, Windstream plans several more deployments across the country in early 2012.

Windstream Hosted Solutions already provides best-in-class cloud computing services and support, through the market’s most robust, enterprise-class solution. Demand for these cloud services has grown significantly, and Windstream Hosted Solutions is a leader in meeting the demand for managed hosting, data center and cloud services. The company was one of the first to offer its clients a hybrid cloud solution and shared load balancing. "By partnering with other industry leaders, we provide a solution that meets our clients’ production and disaster recovery requirements," said Kip Turco, senior vice president of data center operations for Windstream Hosted Solutions.

Turco noted that Windstream’s full range of cloud-based offerings accommodates companies’ requirements at a price point far below what those firms would need if they built out the infrastructure themselves. Clients taking advantage of Windstream Hosted Solutions’ cloud services are also able to leverage MPLS networking, helping to ensure uptime and reduce their operating costs. Business customers are also able to access Windstream’s "Hi-Touch" methodology, giving them the ability to work directly with consultants who can custom-design solutions that meet their specific requirements, rather than merely implementing a "one-size-fits-all" approach.

"Right now, there is a lot of buzz about private clouds, but a number of our clients have found they can achieve the right balance with a hybrid cloud solution, leveraging the public cloud and integrating with their physical or private cloud to achieve the results they need," Turco added.

Windstream offers companies of all sizes a full suite of advanced technology and communication services, including data center solutions, ranging from colocation to outsourced offerings such as physical and cloud Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) implementations. Windstream provides technology solutions for thousands of companies, covering their mission-critical data, e-commerce applications, servers, Internet access and more, with guaranteed levels of consistent uptime from its 13 SAS-70 Type II compliant data centers.