Microsoft acquires Metaswitch Networks to improve 5G communications

What you need to know

• Microsoft acquired Metaswitch Networks, a provider of virtualized network software.
• The acquisition will help Microsoft advance the operation of 5G networks.
• The acquisition follows the recent purchase of Affirmed Networks, which will also help with 5G development.

Microsoft announced the acquisition of Metaswitch Networks today, a leading provider of virtualized network software as well as voice, data, and communications solutions for operators. The purchase of Metaswitch Networks will help Microsoft work with communications network operators, including advancing 5G communications. This is the second acquisition Microsoft has made in this sphere recently, with Microsoft's deal to acquire Affirmed Networks closing on April 23, 2020. Microsoft announced the agreement to acquire Metaswitch Networks in a post by Yousef Khalidi, corporate vice president, Azure Networking.

Metaswitch Networks has a portfolio of ultra-high performance, cloud-native communications software that Khalidi states complements Microsoft's offerings. Microsoft plans to utilize the technology and individuals from Metaswitch Networks and Affirmed Networks to extend its Azure platform offerings in the telecommunications industry.

In the announcement post, Khalidi explains how advancements will help the development of 5G:

Khalidi points out that as networks move forward, network operation will become "increasingly cloud-native." Microsoft will continue to work with operators and network equipment providers in the industry to move operations forward. Khalidi states, "We will continue to support hybrid and multi-cloud models to create a more diverse telecom ecosystem and spur faster innovation, an expanded set of unique offerings and greater opportunities for differentiation."