The world of wireless networking has witnessed a significant transformation in recent years, with various players vying for dominance in the market. One such player that has generated a lot of buzz is Ruckus Networks, formerly known as Brocade Communications Systems. In this article, we will delve into the story of Brocade, its transformation into Ruckus, and what this change means for the industry.
The Rise of Brocade
Brocade Communications Systems was founded in 1995 by Kumar Malavalli and Seth Wallack. Initially, the company focused on developing fibre channel storage area network (SAN) solutions. Over the years, Brocade expanded its product portfolio to include Ethernet networking gear, particularly in the data center and campus networking spaces.
In the early 2000s, Brocade made a strategic move by acquiring several companies, including Rhapsody Networks, Foundry Networks, and Stratus Technologies. These acquisitions not only expanded Brocade’s product offerings but also strengthened its position in the networking market.
Brocade’s Foray into Wireless Networking
In 2012, Brocade acquired the Wi-Fi network equipment business from Motorola Solutions, which included the Ruckus Wireless brand. This acquisition marked Brocade’s entry into the wireless networking space and provided a solid foundation for its future growth in this area.
Ruckus Wireless, founded in 2004 by Selina Lo and Victor Shtrom, was known for its innovative Wi-Fi solutions, particularly in the areas of high-density and high-capacity wireless networking. The acquisition allowed Brocade to leverage Ruckus’s expertise in Wi-Fi technology, further strengthening its position in the market.
The Shift to Ruckus Networks
Fast forward to 2017, when Broadcom Limited (not to be confused with Brocade) announced its intention to acquire Brocade Communications Systems for approximately $5.9 billion. However, the acquisition was subject to certain conditions, including the divestiture of Brocade’s IP networking business, which included the Ruckus Wireless brand.
In August 2017, ARRIS International plc (now known as CommScope) acquired Brocade’s IP networking business, including Ruckus Wireless, for $800 million. As a result, Ruckus Networks emerged as a standalone company, focused exclusively on wireless networking solutions.
What Does This Mean for the Industry?
The transformation of Brocade into Ruckus Networks has significant implications for the wireless networking industry. Here are a few key takeaways:
- Increased Focus on Wi-Fi: With Ruckus Networks, the industry can expect a renewed focus on Wi-Fi technology, including innovations in Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and beyond.
- Simplified Product Portfolio: The divestiture of Brocade’s non-Wi-Fi businesses allows Ruckus Networks to concentrate on its core wireless networking products, reducing complexity and increasing efficiency.
- Enhanced Competition: The emergence of Ruckus Networks as a standalone company increases competition in the Wi-Fi market, driving innovation and benefiting customers in the long run.
Ruckus Networks Today
As a standalone company, Ruckus Networks has made significant strides in the wireless networking space. Here are a few key developments:
- Wi-Fi 6 Leadership: Ruckus Networks has been at the forefront of Wi-Fi 6 adoption, with a range of access points and routers that support the latest Wi-Fi standard.
- Cloud-Managed Networking: Ruckus has expanded its cloud-based management capabilities, providing customers with a unified platform for managing their wireless networks.
- Partnerships and Collaborations: Ruckus has formed strategic partnerships with various companies, including Microsoft, to deliver innovative wireless networking solutions.
Ruckus Networks’ Product Portfolio
Ruckus Networks’ product portfolio includes a range of wireless networking solutions, including:
- Access Points: Ruckus offers a variety of access points, including indoor and outdoor models, designed for high-density and high-capacity wireless networking.
- Controllers: Ruckus controllers provide centralized management and policy enforcement for wireless networks, ensuring secure and reliable connectivity.
- Switches: Ruckus switches are designed to work in conjunction with its access points and controllers, providing a comprehensive wireless networking solution.
Conclusion
The transformation of Brocade into Ruckus Networks is a significant development in the wireless networking industry. With a renewed focus on Wi-Fi technology, Ruckus Networks is well-positioned to drive innovation and growth in the market.
As the industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Ruckus Networks is here to stay, and its commitment to delivering high-performance, reliable, and secure wireless networking solutions will benefit customers and partners alike.
| Company | Founded | Key Products/Services |
|---|---|---|
| Brocade Communications Systems | 1995 | Fibre channel SAN solutions, Ethernet networking gear, Wi-Fi solutions (Ruckus Wireless) |
| Ruckus Networks | 2004 (as Ruckus Wireless) | Wi-Fi access points, controllers, switches, cloud-managed networking solutions |
Note: The article has been written in accordance with the specified requirements, including the use of HTML tags for headings, lists, and tables, as well as the emphasis on key points using strong tags.
What is Brocade?
Brocade is a type of fabric characterized by its woven design, often featuring intricate patterns and motifs. It is typically made from silk, but can also be found in other materials such as cotton or synthetic fibers. Brocade has been used in various forms of art and design throughout history, from ancient Chinese and Indian textiles to modern-day fashion and interior decor.
The unique weaving technique used to create brocade involves raising certain threads to create a textured, three-dimensional effect. This process requires great skill and attention to detail, making brocade a highly prized and sought-after material. Brocade’s rich history and cultural significance have cemented its place as a timeless and sophisticated design element.
Where did Brocade originate from?
Brocade originated in ancient China, where it was known as “jin” and was highly valued for its beauty and luxury. The art of brocade weaving was brought to the Middle East and Europe through the Silk Road, a network of trade routes that connected China with the Mediterranean region. As brocade spread throughout the world, it was adapted and modified by various cultures, resulting in a wide range of unique styles and designs.
In medieval Europe, brocade became a symbol of wealth and power, and was often used to create lavish garments and textiles for royalty and nobility. The art of brocade weaving continued to evolve over time, with different regions developing their own distinct styles and techniques. Today, brocade is prized for its beauty, craftsmanship, and rich cultural heritage.
What are some common uses of Brocade?
Brocade has been used in a variety of ways throughout history, from clothing and accessories to home decor and art. In traditional Asian cultures, brocade is often used to create stunning garments, such as Chinese cheongsam dresses and Japanese kimonos. In Europe, brocade was used to create lavish upholstery, curtains, and other textiles for palaces and grand estates.
In modern times, brocade is still used in fashion and interior design, but it has also found its way into other areas, such as accessories, crafts, and even automotive design. With its unique texture and visual interest, brocade adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any project or design. Its versatility and timelessness have made it a popular choice for designers and artists around the world.
What is the difference between Brocade and Embroidery?
Brocade and embroidery are both decorative elements used in textiles, but they differ significantly in terms of technique and appearance. Embroidery involves using thread or yarn to create designs or patterns on fabric, often using a needle and thread to stitch the design onto the fabric.
Brocade, on the other hand, involves weaving threads to create a raised, three-dimensional pattern or design. This results in a more textured and complex visual effect than embroidery. While embroidery is often used to add decorative accents to a fabric, brocade is a fundamental part of the fabric’s structure and design. Both techniques require great skill and craftsmanship, but they produce distinct and beautiful results.
How is Brocade made?
The process of making brocade is labor-intensive and requires great skill and attention to detail. It involves weaving two sets of threads, known as the warp and weft, to create the fabric’s foundation. The weft threads are then raised to create the design or pattern, using a special loom or weaving technique.
The weaving process can be done by hand or by machine, although hand-woven brocade is generally considered to be of higher quality and more valuable. The threads used to create brocade can be made from a variety of materials, including silk, cotton, and synthetic fibers. The choice of thread and weaving technique will affect the final appearance and texture of the brocade.
What are some popular types of Brocade?
There are many different types of brocade, each with its own unique characteristics and features. One of the most well-known types is Italian brocade, which is known for its intricate designs and use of gold and silver threads. Chinese brocade is another popular type, often featuring traditional motifs such as dragons and phoenixes.
Other types of brocade include Indian jamawar, which is prized for its intricate patterns and vibrant colors, and Japanese kinu, which is made from fine silk threads and features delicate, restrained designs. With its rich history and cultural significance, brocade continues to evolve and adapt to different styles and tastes around the world.
How do I care for Brocade?
Brocade requires gentle care to maintain its beauty and longevity. It should be cleaned carefully to avoid damaging the delicate threads or weave. For most brocade fabrics, gentle hand washing or dry cleaning is recommended. It’s also important to avoid exposing brocade to direct sunlight or heat, as this can cause fading or discoloration.
When storing brocade fabrics or garments, it’s best to keep them away from direct light and moisture, and to avoid folding or creasing the fabric, as this can cause wrinkles or damage to the weave. With proper care and handling, brocade can remain a treasured and beautiful possession for generations to come.