Virtualization startup FastScale is readying the launch of its first products next month, picking up $6.5 million in Series A funding yesterday as it prepares to take on VMware, Opsware, and IBM. (See FastScale Secures $6.5M.)
The round, which was led by ATA Ventures, will be used to fund the rollout of the startup's closely-guarded software, starting next month. "It's software virtualization and provisioning for large Web farms and data centers," explains Lynn LeBlanc, FastScale CEO. "Effectively, we're managing many of the functions that currently occur manually in building, managing, and deploying software environments."
The exec would not reveal additional details of FastScale's technology ahead of its April 16 launch, although she did cite Opsware and Bladelogic as direct competitors. (See Opsware Intros Solution, Opsware, Cisco Ink Deal, BladeLogic Intros Software, and BladeLogic Boosts Management.)
Both Opsware and BladeLogic have positioned their wares as a way for users to automate a range of data center processes, from server provisioning and patch management to security and compliance. (See Time Warner Teams With BladeLogic, Betfair Selects BladeLogic, Expedia Picks BladeLogic, Right90 Selects BladeLogic, and Virgin Mobile.)
Like a convict looking to prove himself by taking on the meanest, biggest con in his new cellblock, FastScale is also eyeing up VMware. "In some cases we will compete, and in some cases we will be complementary," explained LeBlanc, presumably while cracking her knuckles.
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