Nextscale System Versus Flex System - IBM NeXtScale System Planning And Implementation Manual

2.4 NeXtScale System versus Flex System

Although NeXtScale System and Flex System are both "blade" architectures,
they are different in their approach, as shown in Figure 2-5 and Table 2-2 on
page 20. The key here is to understand the client philosophy. Features and
approaches in Flex System and NeXtScale System appeal to different kinds of
users.
Flex System has a wide ecosystem of compatible servers (x86 and POWER®),
switches, and storage offerings. It is aimed at clients that are looking for an
optimized and integrated solution that delivers better performance than
competitive offerings.
NeXtScale System is an x86-only architecture and its aim is to be the perfect
server for clients that require a scale-out infrastructure. NeXtScale System uses
industry-standard components, including I/O cards and top-of-rack networking
switches, for flexibility of choice and ease of adoption.
Systems with integrated expertise to
deliver lower management costs and a
simplified user experience
Client needs: A pre-integrated, pre-
optimized, complete hardware and
software platform with built-in stack
management to develop and deliver new
business applications quickly and cost
effectively.
Figure 2-5 Comparing Flex System with NeXtScale System
IBM PureFlex and Flex System IBM NeXtScale System
Designed for scale-out applications
such as Technical Computing,
Cloud, Grid and Analytics
Client needs: For clients looking to
build a customized solution that is
delivered pre-integrated leveraging
their existing management and
networking stacks.
Chapter 2. Positioning
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