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F5 Networks is including virtual editions of its enterprise-class Big-IP application delivery networking (ADN) solutions as part of its cloud licensing program. The cloud licensing program is targeted at IaaS cloud providers, their customers and channel partners.

The move is timely because enterprise IT customers transitioning to a cloud model are faced with tradeoffs, such as relinquishing control or having to create a unique management environment for off-premise applications.

This often causes friction between the IaaS provider and enterprise IT, with the service provider having difficulty complying with IT's preference to retain control and ensure that applications are available. Until now, IaaS cloud providers have had to buy the necessary infrastructure to sufficiently address these demands and support their customers. However, this creates an enormous amount of business risk for cloud providers, due to the reluctance of enterprise customers to sign long-term contracts or employ a predictive use model.

Under its new cloud licensing program, F5 creates a unified architecture for both private and public clouds with virtual editions of its Big-IP platform. In other words, F5 now offers its ADN solutions in a utility billing model. This enables enterprise customers to leverage the same enterprise-class IT infrastructure that they have in their private clouds, while giving the IaaS cloud provider the ability to better manage their cash flow.

In bringing ADN solutions to the cloud and offering a flexible pay-as-you-go billing model, "cloud providers can realize significant benefits from participating in this licensing program, including a differentiated service offering, a larger target market, and enhanced revenue opportunities," said Jason Needham, senior director of Product Management at F5.