REDMOND, Wash., and BOSTON - Microsoft Corp. and ClearSky Data announced that they have entered into a licensing agreement to enable access to Microsoft’s Server Message Block (SMB) file transport technology for ClearSky’s on-demand, hybrid cloud storage service for backup and disaster recovery (DR). According to Microsoft, the agreement will enable users to seamlessly transport multiple files or programs between ClearSky’s service and Windows tools simultaneously.

 

“We are excited to announce this agreement with ClearSky Data to offer its customers our SMB file transport services for cloud-based storage solutions,” said Micky Minhas, head of Microsoft Technology Licensing. “This agreement demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to licensing our SMB intellectual property to enable innovative cloud solutions that integrate with the Windows ecosystem.”

 

“Our partnership with Microsoft offers ClearSky Data the opportunity to provide a more robust network file sharing protocol for our enterprise customers moving to the cloud,” said ClearSky CTO and co-founder Laz Vekiarides. “This will help our customers get to the cloud seamlessly and more easily access their programs and efficiently manage their data, which is key to the success of their cloud operations.”

 

Microsoft’s commitment to licensing IP

 

The partnership is another example of the important role intellectual property (IP) plays in ensuring a healthy and vibrant technology ecosystem. Since Microsoft launched its IP licensing program in December 2003, it has entered into more than 1,200 licensing agreements.