Extreme Networks Acquires Aerohive Networks to Strengthen Cloud Networking Offerings

Extreme Networks, Inc., a software-driven networking company, has completed its acquisition of Aerohive Networks, a player in cloud-managed networking, bringing together the world's #2 leader in cloud managed wireless LAN services with the #3 provider of enterprise networking equipment.

With Aerohive, Extreme will offer customers and partners more choices for cloud and on-premises wired and wireless technology, including the industry's broadest array of wireless LAN solutions at a critical technology transition to Wi-Fi 6 – all from a single vendor and backed by its award-winning, insourced services and support team.

The acquisition of Aerohive adds critical cloud management and edge capabilities to Extreme's portfolio of end-to-end, edge to cloud software-driven networking solutions. It expands Extreme's technology leadership in Wi-Fi and NAC, adding cloud-managed Wi-Fi and NAC solutions to complement its on-premises Wi-Fi and NAC technology, driving Extreme deeper into key verticals and presenting numerous opportunities for cross-sell and up-sell within the combined portfolios. It also brings new SD-WAN capabilities to Extreme's solutions mix. Now, customers and partners of Extreme and Aerohive will be able to mix and match a broader array of software, hardware, and services Elements to create networks that support their unique needs and that may be managed and automated from end-to-end – from the enterprise edge to the cloud – to advance their digital transformation efforts.

Ed Meyercord, President and CEO, Extreme Networks, said, "Closing our acquisition of Aerohive in just 45 days from initial announcement eliminates many execution risks and better positions us to transition customers smoothly. We are excited to bring Aerohive's market leading cloud management, AI and ML, and SD-WAN capabilities to our customers and partners. We're equally excited to introduce our extensive portfolio of edge-to-cloud solutions to the Aerohive customer and partner base. From a financial perspective, Aerohive's platform is a critical component in our strategy to add subscription-oriented SaaS and cloud-based solutions that will enable us to drive recurring revenue and improved cash flow generation."

Nabil Bukhari, Executive Vice President, Products, Extreme Networks, said, "Aerohive's cloud management capabilities fit perfectly into our plans to marry cutting edge technology with an intuitive user experience, while reducing complexity and lowering operating expenses. Aerohive's agile development methodologies and high performing teams will dramatically increase our speed of innovation, driving enhancements to existing solutions and development of new use cases as we continue to invest in the platform. In the near-term, our respective customers and partners can expect cloud management support for our wired switching portfolio and new intelligence and assurance applications."

Chris DePuy, Founder and Technology Analyst, 650 Group, explained, "The acquisition of Aerohive and its technology complements Extreme's portfolio of edge to cloud solutions, enhancing its enterprise WLAN offerings with leading cloud management capabilities as the industry continues making the transition to cloud-based networking products and solutions. Extreme also acquires other products and services in exciting new growth markets, such as Enhanced Network Access Control (ENAC), which includes solutions that allow customers to better manage IoT and BYOD scenarios. By combing Aerohive into Extreme, Extreme will be one of only a handful of vendors that can offer a full campus solution."