Microsoft announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase Metaswitch Networks, a developer of network software.

Metaswitch Networks’ products are used by over 1,000 customers worldwide, and the company has recently pioneered “the development of ultra-high-performance cloud native communications software. This software is underpinning modern cloud-based communication networks, in the core and at the edge.”

In the blog post announcing the acquisition, Yousef Khalidi, Corporate Vice President of Azure Networking, made it clear this focus on cloud-based communication was at the heart of the acquisition.

“The convergence of cloud and communication networks presents a unique opportunity for Microsoft to serve operators globally via continued investment in Azure, adding additional depth to our hyperscale cloud infrastructure with the specialized software required to run virtualized communication functions, applications and networks.”

By combining Metaswitch Networks’ software with Azure, Microsoft will be in a position to better meet the needs of new and existing companies.

“We have a long history of working with operators as they increasingly embrace software-based solutions and continue to support the advancement of cloud-based networking while helping create new partnership opportunities for existing network equipment providers,” continues Khalidi. “Our intention over time is to create modern alternatives to network infrastructure, enabling operators to deliver existing and value-added services – with greater cost efficiency and lower capital investment than they’ve faced in the past.”