Two of Australia’s leading information communications technology companies, IntraPower Ltd (ASX: IPX) and UXC Connect, today announced a partnership delivering a major breakthrough in Cloud computing security and reliability.

The two companies said the partnership created a new joint force focused on cost-effectively providing secure and reliable Cloud computing via IntraPower’s new Trusted Cloud computing platform.

IntraPower is a leader in next-generation computing technology and UXC Connect is part of ASX listed UXC Ltd, the largest Australian-owned ICT Services company in  Australia.

IntraPower Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Greg Kennish said the partnership would combine IntraPower’s technology, infrastructure and deep technical skills with UXC Connect’s project, IT and service management capabilities.

“IntraPower has already established a first-mover advantage in TrustedCloud and this partnership with UXC Connect means we have increased our capabilities to introduce our cutting-edge technology to more customers, including larger organisations,” Mr Kennish said.

UXC Connect Managing Director, Paul Timmins, said: “Cloud computing solutions are becoming increasingly attractive to our customer base in light of, for example, heightened security and risk management considerations. This new partnership allows us the opportunity to offer best in class Cloud solutions to our customer base.”

Mr Kennish said the partnership with UXC Connect follows IntraPower’s implementation of its TrustedCloud solution on the FlexPod™ platform.

“The combination of our TrustedCloud solutions on the FlexPod™, together with the UXC Connect partnership, is a breakthrough in the way customers will be able to move their IT operations to Trusted Cloud and operate in a secure, reliable and cost-effective environment.

“We are building the equivalent of a power station for secure and reliable IT-as-a-Service.

“Flexpod™ is powered by best of breed technology from Cisco, NetApp and VMware. This new platform can easily scale, be optimized for a variety of mixed application workloads, and be configured for virtual desktops or server infrastructure, in secure multi-tenancy environments.

“This is our 7th generation of build for our Trusted Cloud farm and it provides additional security and reliability at our data farms on the eastern seaboard which service our points of presence across Australia. Our Trusted Cloud solution has been operational in a broad range of companies for a number of years. Over this time we have developed the necessary systems, procedures and processes to ensure maximum security and now, with UXC Connect providing their project, IT and service management skills, we can further ensure maximum security and reliability during the on-boarding process and on an ongoing basis.

“Together with UXC Connect our services will clearly lead the market in Cloud computing solutions.”

Mr Kennish said IntraPower and UXC Connect would work together on joint projects. The partnership would allow IntraPower to broaden the Trusted Cloud service to larger organisations, such as large enterprises with more than 1,000 staff, including those in the Government sector.

Mr Timmins said the partnership was an excellent opportunity for both companies to increase their presence in Cloud computing services. “The partnership is an excellent fit as we will be combining complimentary skills to produce an offer that will be highly attractive to the corporate market,” he said.

"As the leading independent managed services provider, it is vital that we offer the ‘best in class’ technology solutions to our customers. This new partnership means that we can offer secure, cost-effective computing solutions to our customer base.

“This partnership is a key portfolio development for UXC Connect. And, to have IntraPower, who are leaders in this field as our partners, just further strengthens our ability to offer clients their ideal technology solution, delivering them the best business outcomes.”

IntraPower accelerated its Cloud computing services during the 2010 financial year and Mr Kennish said the company was very optimistic about the potential of the services to drive IntraPower’s business.

IntraPower’s success in Cloud computing was recognised earlier this month with a 2011 Australian Telecommunications Users Group (ATUG) Award for the Best Communications Initiative for Small Business.