BT plots a path to cloud-based IT infrastructure

BT is planning a Virtual Data Centre (VDC) service for delivering IT services including storage, networks and security. The service is part of BT's transition from a network operator to a provider of IT infrastructure in the cloud.

The BT VDC service will offer virtual server, storage, security and networking services through an online portal.

BT said the service will be charged as a "Pay-as-you-grow" service and offer high availability and business continuity services options.

Hanif Lalani, chief executive of BT Global Services, said, "Having the click-to-build and buy facility will give [customers] flexibility and ease of provisioning. Deployment times will also be reduced from months to weeks, resulting in further cost savings and efficiencies."