WAN Optimization moves in on the Proxy

In a previous article I talked about whether WAN Optimization belonged in the proxy and referenced Blue Coat's implementation in their proxy device. Apparently other WAN Optimization vendors are beginning to believe the same story as Riverbed announced their partnership with Secure Computing. While this announcement shores up Blue Coat's story, the above linked article shows that at least one networking pundit believes there's little substance to Riverbed and Secure's announcement other than marketing fluff.

Mike Rothman refers to the partnership as "No Coat" and calls it a "Barney" deal (as in Barney, the purple dinosaur - you know "I love you, you love me"). I'm sure this isn't the first partnership in response to Blue Coat, nor will it be the last, as we'll continue to see proxy vendors integrate, partner and merge with WAN Optimization vendors.