Cisco Systems has agreed to acquire privately held NeoPath Networks, a network storage and virtualisation firm.
The company hopes that the acquisition will allow for more efficient use of Cisco's server systems.
NeoPath specialises in virtualisation software that links multiple small storage units and allows them to act as a single device. The firm also produces rack-mount and blade hardware systems to implement the virtualisation software.
Cisco hopes to absorb NeoPath's products into its Service Oriented Network Architecture programme, and to pitch the products as a way for businesses to improve storage systems without resorting to drastic hardware upgrades.
"Enterprise customers are asking Cisco how they can make better use of their existing IT infrastructure, and NeoPath is part of the answer," said Jayshree Ullal, senior vice president at Cisco's data centre switching and security technology group.
Cisco hopes to close the deal by the end of April. Terms were not disclosed. NeoPath employees a staff of 55.
