ASP Initiatives Target New Niches, PC Management

As the application service provider (ASP) business expands and fragments, Microsoft is appealing to new ASP niches with new solutions, partner programs, and management tools. Though most of the new initiatives are small and narrowly targeted, and some are experimental, they will give Microsoft insight into embryonic markets and provide opportunities to lift start-ups onto the Windows 2000 and .NET bandwagons.

The new initiatives include programs aimed at on-site service providers (OSPs) and at “managed PC” companies that offer complete management of a business’s LAN, including PC desktop hardware and software.

On-site Service Providers

OSPs provide broadband connectivity in high-density, multi-tenant buildings, such as office buildings, hotels, and apartment buildings. They typically install, at minimum, a network device such as a router or a DSL Access Multiplexer (DSLAM) in the building to aggregate data traffic in the building and send it to the Internet via a WAN connection. Many will wire the building with Ethernet cable, and they may put a network hub on every floor, connecting the hubs with a high-speed backbone.