Microsoft, Cisco target SMBs

SEATTLE: Microsoft Corp. and Cisco Systems Inc. have joined hands to

collaborate on software and network hardware design that would make it easier

for small and medium-sized companies to get internal systems and networks up and

running.

The announcement between the world's largest software and network equipment

maker comes as both companies increasingly target companies with 500 or fewer

employees as a key source of future revenue. The companies said they would also

offer products designed to make it easier for small and mid-sized companies to

talk to their customers.

Both the companies say the intent of collaboration is make it easier for

businesses to set up a networked server computer with high-speed Internet

access. The offering, which includes Microsoft's Windows Server software

targeted at small and medium-sized businesses and Cisco's router for managing

network traffic, will be rolled out by March.

(Reuters)