Sun Microsystems, Inc. later today is expected to announce its purchase of Java applications server middleware vendor NetDynamics, Inc.
The purchase will validate two rumors that have been floating around Silicon Valley for months; that NetDynamics was looking for a buyer and that Sun would enter the applications server market.
Based in Menlo Park, Calif., NetDynamics was seen as the leader in the Java applications server and development tools market as recently as a year ago. But the company reportedly saw sales sag as start-ups such as WebLogic, Inc. and SilverStream Software, Inc. launched competing products.
NetDynamics also lost key technical personnel over the past few months, many of whom went over to San Francisco-based WebLogic.
Other vendors competing in the applications server/development tool market are GemStone Systems, Inc., HAHT Software, Inc. and Bluestone Software, Inc. and the Art Technology Group.
Sun and NetDynamics officials are planning a teleconference later today to announce the deal.
Apply for your free subscription to Network World. Click here. Or get Network World delivered in PDF each week.
Request a reprint or permission to use this article.
