HP aims for database boost with OuterBay buy

HP is promising more effective database management with OuterBay software

HP has signed a definitive agreement to acquire OuterBay, a provider of archiving software for enterprise applications and databases.

OuterBay's technology is designed to work with Oracle, SQL Server and Sybase databases. It will help organisations manage databases more effectively, according to HP, and can improve database performance by up to 80 per cent.

The technology also supports major enterprise applications such as Oracle E-Business Suite, SAP and PeopleSoft.

Financial terms were not disclosed, but the transaction is subject to certain closing conditions and is expected to be completed within the next two weeks.

Following completion, OuterBay will be "substantially integrated" into the StorageWorks division of HP's Technology Solutions Group.

"OuterBay builds on HP's enterprise portfolio to help companies get more from their mission-critical database environments," said Bob Schultz, senior vice president and general manager at HP StorageWorks.

"Sixty per cent of our HP Integrity server customers are running Oracle applications and databases today, making this a key capability for our existing customers."

Headquartered in Cupertino, California, OuterBay has 60 employees, approximately 100 customers, and offices in the US, the UK and India.