New Scalable Solution for Web Browser Opera Mini

Opera Software chose Proact IT Group as advisor and partner to get more technical value per terabyte and reduce costs.

Opera Software’s browsers ensure 350 million customers quality surfing experience – regardless of screen and device.

The platforms are deployed at Opera’s data centres in Amsterdam, Reykjavik and Virginia (USA); and are managed from Oslo. The storage solutions are especially there to support Opera Mini (the browser that shrinks web pages by as much as 90%), storage from the user environment, and new ventures.

“Over the next few months we will deliver the default browser on Nokia’s new mobile phones and integrate their app market store with our own. This results in us integrating tens of millions new users in our systems,” said Anthony Nichols, responsible for procuring technical solutions, Opera.

The partnership between Opera and Proact kicked off in 2013 when a pilot solution was deployed in the data centres on Iceland and in the Netherlands. The platform in Reykjavik was upgraded the summer of 2014. In October a large installation was deployed in the US, and the Netherlands upgraded in January 2015.

“Scalability and performance was a key differentiator when we decided for new storage platform. It’s important that our infrastructure is as dynamic as possible, and we have for several years invested in software defined solutions with virtualisation and integration towards OpenStack. NetApp, Inc. supports this with automatic integration and functionality that improves and simplifies. Support and advice from Proact have ensured the best deployment,” said Nichols.

Cost per terabyte, compared to previous solution is lower. Internal IT-experts are also very satisfied that these new solutions take less time and are easier to administrate.

Nichols explains that the technology platform is essential when the various business units are to ensure profitability from their products and services. Even the smallest costs may have big implications.

“Most of our services come with small margins on very high volumes. We must therefore make thorough business cases before launching new products and services. We have to be lean and have a solid technology platform that ensures that we always have the right capacity available. Now we can easily scale and feel that we have the solution that has delivered the most technical value for our investments,” said Nichols.

Proact is happy with feedback from its customer and look forward to years of mutually rewarding partnership.

“As advisor we always strive to service the most interesting customers that have the most inspiring and challenging needs and projects. Opera has for years been an innovator in terms of deploying and harvesting benefits from innovative solutions in their infrastructure. It’s truly a gift to be able to work so closely and support Opera when they compete with several of the biggest and most innovative global enterprises. We are excited about continuing the great partnership,” said CEO, Proact Norway, Thomas Kronen.