NetApp and Nutanix launch joint platform for modern virtualization and AI-driven data infrastructure

The NetApp Nutanix partnership marks a strategic step as the companies launch a common platform for modern virtualization and AI-driven data infrastructure.

By combining Nutanix Cloud Platform with NetApp's ONTAP technology A solution is created that provides increased flexibility, improved security and better scalability for organizations that want to future-proof their IT environment.

Integration between storage and virtualization

A central part of the collaboration is that NetApp's ONTAP can now be used as an external storage solution in Nutanix environments. This allows for the separation of storage and compute resources, giving companies greater control over their infrastructure.

This means that organizations can:

• Maximize existing storage investments
• Scale storage and compute independently
• Simplify management of virtual environments

Integration occurs via NFS, providing a flexible and scalable architecture adapted for modern data centers.

Simplified operation and more efficient management

By combining Nutanix Prism with NetApps data services, companies gain a more unified operating model. This reduces the complexity of the IT environment and improves operational efficiency.

The result is:

• Faster troubleshooting and easier administration
• Clearer separation between different IT layers
• Possibility to modernize gradually without major downtime

This makes the solution particularly attractive for organizations that want to avoid large and risky platform changes.

Enhanced security and data protection

The partnership also includes advanced security features, with NetApp's AI-powered ransomware protection playing a central role.

The solution offers:

• AI-based detection of cyber threats
• Snapshots and replication for rapid recovery
• Increased resilience in hybrid and multicloud environments

This strengthens organizations' ability to manage today's growing cybersecurity threat landscape.

Faster migration and lower risk

Another key component is improved migration capabilities. Tools like NetApp Shift Toolkit and Nutanix Move allow companies to migrate virtual machines faster and with less risk.

The benefits include:

• Migration without the need for data copying
• Greatly reduced migration times
• Minimal impact on operations

This enables smoother transitions to new platforms or modernized environments.

Focus on AI and future IT platforms

As part of the collaboration, plans NetApp and Nutanix to further develop the integration to support AI-driven workflows and so-called agent-based AI.

This means that companies have better opportunities to:

• Automate workflows with AI
• Manage and analyze data more efficiently
• Accelerate your digital transformation

The partnership marks a clear step towards more intelligent and data-driven IT platforms.

Availability

The solution is currently in early access and is expected to be generally available in the second half of 2026.