NetApp is rolling out a new service called NetApp Private Storage. It will be partnering with Equinix to make the service more effective for business clients.

NetApp Private Storage will allow businesses to easily create a hybrid cloud system, where data storage is split between existing infrastructure and the Microsoft Azure cloud service. Private Storage expands the infrastructure already present on business servers to Azure, creating a single environment that is both easily accessible and expandable.

"NetApp Private Storage for Microsoft Azure enables organizations to simply and securely extend into the cloud, expanding options for enterprises, without adding complexity," says NetApp VP Phil Brotherton in a statement. "First with FlexPod for Microsoft Private Cloud and now with the addition of private storage for Microsoft Azure, our vision is to enable workloads to move seamlessly across a portfolio of cloud resources."

The trasfer of data between local and cloud servers is where Equinix comes in. Its Cloud Exchange provides a simple and fast way of connecting to the cloud. Testing revealed that throughput between local servers and Microsoft Azure for NetApp Private Storage users was increased by 36 percent on average compared to sending the data over public channels. Equinix can also connect to multiple clouds simultaneously, enabling businesses to pursue options for spreading workflow through a number of channels.

"The performance gains reported by NetApp's customers on Equinix Cloud Exchange should be very encouraging to companies considering multi-cloud deployments," says Equinix VP Greg Adgate. "Through the Cloud Exchange, we aim to give companies near-instant access to the broadest range of cloud and IT services."

Equinix Cloud Exchange is currently available in 16 markets worldwide: Amsterdam, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, New York, Seattle, Silicon Valley, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto and Washington D.C. Equinix plans to expand to an additional three cities by the end of 2014. NetApp Private Storage is available now in Silicon Valley and Washington D.C., with plans to roll out in the remaining cities soon. No official timeline for either expansion has been given, and Equinix did not divulge which cities would soon be receiving service.