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Cisco NAS Options Mulled: Page 2 of 3

Curlin's view that EMC and Cisco may pair up is shared by others. "I've heard it and I think it will probably come about," says one industry analyst, who asked for anonymity. To him, EMC makes more sense than NetApp or other partners because EMC has the best channels for Cisco's foray into NAS.

But a third source, a financial analyst to asked not to be named, thinks there's as much chance that NetApp -- or others -- could partner with Cisco as with EMC. This analyst has heard that EMC may be leery of getting overly involved with Cisco, since that could produce competitive or strategic problems later on.

Curlin acknowledges there are many Cisco/NetApp attractions, including a common board member in Don Valentine and industry whispers about various potential "strategic combinations" that have continued for a long time (see Cisco to Slot In NetApp?). But Curlin maintains that a pairing of NetApp and Cisco "directly conflicts with Cisco's attempts to penetrate the SAN switching market," which is a top priority -- a priority that EMC is better able to help it achieve.

Meanwhile, there are other possibilities. If Cisco is indeed looking for NAS partner, there are a fleet of startups that may be eager for the job, including the likes of Acopia Networks Inc. and Isilon Systems (see NAS Evolution: The Insider Scoop). Curlin thinks this is an unlikely scenario, since Cisco's looking for immediate traction in the NAS market, which a startup can't offer.

Cisco and NetApp did not return requests for comment at press time; EMC declined to comment.