Network
Applianceis suingSun Microsystemsover the ownership of
Sun's ZFS data-processing technology.
Network Appliance said, "In the wake of prolonged and aggressive
claims by Sun Microsystems against the company, we have filed suit
seeking a declaration that Network Appliance is not infringing
three of Sun's US patents, and that those patents are invalid."
The suit also seeks a ruling that Sun infringes seven NetApp US
patents, covering data-processing systems and related software. The
suit is particularly targeted at Sun's ZFS technology.
NetApp said, "Sun's aggressive demand that we license some of
their intellectual property caused us to examine carefully whether
we were infringing their intellectual property rights and whether
they might be infringing ours."
NetApp is seeking damages against Sun and an order for its rival
to stop the alleged distribution of patented NetApp technology to
customers.