IBM continues to pull plug on networking

Big Blue's retreat from the networking hardware market is accelerating with the withdrawal of a dozen or so pieces of hardware and software.

This week the company announced it was cancelling within the next months the availability of its 22xx family of routers, as well as the 8371 Ethernet and 8265 ATM switches, along with some of the features of its 3746 Communications Controllers.

This is in keeping with IBM's deal with Cisco Systems, inked about a year ago. According to its terms, IBM is leaving the IP-Ethernet business and collaborating closely with Cisco to migrate its SNA and Token Ring customers to Cisco gear. The move virtually wiped out the firm's once formidable Networking Hardware Division.

The dozen or so cancelled products listed on IBM's Web site will be unavailable after October. Among these products are the 22xx router family and its operating system and peripheral equipment. This also will include the 2216 Multi-Access Enclosure, used with the 3746 controller to run IP traffic off a mainframe.

IBM directs its customers to consult with their sales reps to find replacements for the gear being withdrawn.