In addition to distributing Opsware software with HP UDC, HP Services will be an "Opsware Authorized Partner," providing Opsware consulting and implementation services in conjunction with the HP UDC. UDC customers will have the option to purchase the combined solution from HP by the end of 2003.

"HP and Opsware are putting together critical pieces of the utility computing puzzle," said Vernon Turner, Group Vice President, IDC. "This relationship is a winning combination that creates a solution that can optimize every layer of the stack and further establishes HP and Opsware as leaders in this fast-growing market."

The HP Utility Data Center solution provides complete virtualization of computing resources - including networking, servers, storage, and operating system and application provisioning across multiple platforms (including Windows, Solaris, HP-UX and Linux) while the Opsware software automates key software and application operations such as fine-grain software provisioning, patching, and application deployment and rollback.

HP Services Agreement
The agreement announced today also designates HP Services as an "Opsware Authorized Partner" for Opsware-related consulting and implementation services. HP's worldwide services organization - now claiming to be the world's third largest provider of IT services - will offer enterprise customers a range of Opsware-related services including customer workshops, ROI analyses, installation and deployment services, integration with monitoring, ticketing and other workflow systems, and ongoing management and administration of the Opsware System in conjunction with an HP UDC installation.

HP UDC and Opsware Integration
The integration of Opsware and HP UDC will enable customers to realize an enhanced utility computing model, that aims to reduce costs and implementation times in existing or new data center environments. As customers use UDC to make real-time changes to their virtual environment, Opsware will be immediately aware of the changes and able to further automate software operations to make applications and services available on the fly. HP UDC and Opsware address all system platforms including HP-UX, Windows®, Linux and Solaris, and provide support for a range of software products including application servers, database servers, web servers, directory servers, content management systems and messaging and enterprise integration solutions.