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Aruba Networks
Aruba Networks
from Wikipedia

HPE Aruba Networking, formerly known as Aruba Networks, is a Santa Clara, California-based security and networking subsidiary of Hewlett Packard Enterprise company.

Key Information

The company was founded in Sunnyvale, California in 2002 by Keerti Melkote and Pankaj Manglik. On March 2, 2015, Hewlett-Packard announced it would acquire Aruba Networks for approximately US$3 billion.[1] On May 19, 2015, HP completed the acquisition. As of November 1, 2015, the company operates as the "Intelligent Edge" business unit of the Hewlett Packard Enterprise company, which encompasses all of HP/HPE's networking and security related operations and acquisitions. The company's products include network switches, access points, hotspots, and wireless controllers.

Following their acquisition of Juniper Networks, Hewlett Packard Enterprise agreed to divest their Instant On technology and patents as part of an agreement with the United States Department of Justice that allowed the acquisition to pass regulatory approval.[2]

Acquisitions

[edit]
Company Acquired Date of Acquisition Business Country Price
AXIS March 2, 2023 Cloud-based Security Software(SSE, SASE) Israel $471M
Athonet February 24, 2023 Private 5G Italy NA
Silver Peak Systems September 21, 2020 Wide Area Networks (WANs) U.S. $925M
Cape Networks March 27, 2018 Network Security South Africa N/A
Niara Inc. February 1, 2017 Network Security U.S. N/A
Rasa Networks May 9, 2016 Network Performance Management and Analytics U.S. N/A
Aruba Networks (acquired by HPE) May 19, 2015 Wireless Networking U.S. $2.7B
Meridian Apps May 16, 2013 Location Services U.S. N/A
Avenda Systems December 8, 2011 Network Access Security U.S. N/A
Amigopod Pty Ltd. Assets and Technology December 14, 2010 Network Authentication Solutions Australia N/A
Azalea Networks September 2, 2010 Outdoor Mesh Wireless Technology U.S. $40.5M
3Com April 22, 2010 Network Interface Controller (NIC) U.S. $2.7B
AirWave Wireless January 9, 2008 Wi-Fi Hotspot U.S. N/A
Network Chemistry July 23, 2007 Wi-Fi Security U.S. N/A

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
HPE Aruba Networking, formerly known as Aruba Networks, is a Santa Clara, California-based provider of secure, AI-powered networking solutions that operates as a of (HPE). Specializing in edge-to-cloud architectures, it delivers wired and wireless connectivity, IoT integration, policy management, and advanced security features for enterprise environments. Founded in 2002 by Keerti Melkote and Pankaj Manglik in , Aruba Networks emerged as a pioneer in enterprise technology, focusing on mobility and secure network access amid the rise of adoption. The company quickly grew through innovations in WLAN hardware and software, attracting venture capital from firms like and achieving revenues of approximately $729 million by 2014 with around 1,800 employees. In March 2015, Hewlett-Packard announced its acquisition of for $3 billion (including debt), a deal completed in May 2015, which positioned the combined entity as a leader in enterprise mobility by merging Aruba's wireless expertise with HP's wired switching capabilities. Following HP's split into and later that year, Aruba became part of HPE, evolving into HPE Aruba Networking and expanding into AI-driven operations (AIOps), private , and cloud-managed platforms. Today, HPE Aruba Networking's portfolio includes flagship products like Aruba Central—a cloud-native platform for simplified network operations—and ClearPass Policy Manager for zero-trust enforcement, alongside Wi-Fi 7 access points that support high-performance, AI-optimized connectivity for diverse use cases such as retail IoT and campus networks. With a focus on simplicity, scalability, and , the company serves global enterprises, enabling secure through integrated solutions that span from edge devices to cloud infrastructure. HPE Aruba Networking has been recognized as a Leader in key industry analyst reports, including for 19 consecutive years in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Wired and Wireless LAN Infrastructure as of 2025 and in the 2025 IDC MarketScape for Worldwide Enterprise Wireless LAN.

History

Founding and Early Years

Aruba Networks was founded in 2002 in , by Keerti Melkote and Pankaj Manglik, both of whom had prior experience as employees at Systems and Corporation. The founders aimed to address the emerging demands of enterprise mobility by developing secure wireless (WLAN) solutions that provided robust connectivity for mobile workers in corporate environments. This focus stemmed from their observations of limitations in existing networking technologies during their time at previous employers, where they managed internal networks and witnessed the rise of wireless adoption. In 2003, introduced its initial product lineup, including the AP-52 access point, which pioneered a controller-based for networks. This innovation enabled centralized management of access points through dedicated mobility controllers, such as the early 800 series models, allowing enterprises to scale deployments while maintaining security and performance across distributed environments. The controller-based approach differentiated by offloading complex tasks like and traffic optimization from individual access points to a central system, simplifying administration for large-scale WLANs. Key early milestones included securing $9.5 million in Series A in January 2003 from venture capital firms , , and Trinity Ventures, which supported product development and initial go-to-market efforts. By 2004, Aruba had landed its first significant enterprise customer contracts, validating the demand for its secure mobility solutions in sectors like and healthcare. These wins demonstrated the viability of Aruba's in real-world settings, where reliable access was becoming essential. From the outset, Aruba encountered substantial challenges in competing against incumbents like Cisco Systems, which dominated the enterprise networking space. To counter this, the company emphasized software-driven innovations, such as advanced and RF management, to deliver superior scalability and security without relying solely on hardware superiority. This strategy helped Aruba carve out a niche in the rapidly evolving wireless market, positioning it as a specialist in enterprise-grade mobility.

Growth and Initial Public Offering

Aruba Networks completed its (IPO) on the on March 27, 2007, under the ARUN. The company sold 8 million shares at $11 per share, raising $88 million in gross proceeds, which valued the firm at approximately $827 million at pricing. The shares surged 29% on the first day of trading, reflecting strong investor interest in Aruba's wireless networking solutions amid growing enterprise demand for secure mobility. This capital infusion enabled Aruba to accelerate , expand its sales force, and scale operations globally, transitioning from a private startup to a publicly traded entity focused on capturing in the burgeoning sector. Post-IPO, Aruba experienced robust revenue growth, driven by widespread adoption of its wireless solutions in key enterprise verticals such as education, healthcare, retail, and financial services. Revenue increased from $72.5 million in fiscal year 2006 (ended July 31, 2006) to $729 million in fiscal year 2014, achieving a compound annual growth rate of 30% over the preceding five years. Notable milestones included product revenue reaching $221.5 million in fiscal year 2010, $334.9 million in 2011, $434.7 million in 2012, $600 million in 2013, and $728.9 million in 2014, with the latter representing a 21% year-over-year increase. This expansion was fueled by the proliferation of mobile devices and the need for reliable, secure wireless infrastructure in large-scale deployments. Strategic acquisitions and product innovations further solidified Aruba's positioning during this period. In May 2010, Aruba acquired Azalea Networks for $41 million, gaining advanced outdoor wireless mesh technology that targeted latency-sensitive applications like video surveillance and voice in industrial environments, thereby broadening its portfolio beyond indoor wireless LANs. This move complemented the introduction of the Aruba Mobility Controller platform in 2007, which provided centralized management for unified wired and wireless networks through ArubaOS software, simplifying policy enforcement and traffic optimization. In 2011, Aruba entered the wired switching market with the launch of the S3500 Mobility Access Switch, enabling seamless integration of wired Ethernet devices with wireless infrastructure for consistent mobility-centric management. By 2012, had emerged as a leading vendor in the enterprise market, capturing 11.2% share in the third quarter according to IDC, second only to and ahead of competitors like HP. This leadership was bolstered by innovations such as Adaptive Radio (), a radio frequency optimization technology introduced in 's controllers to dynamically select channels and power levels, mitigating interference and enhancing performance in dense environments. 's infrastructure-based controls ensured optimal client connectivity and spectrum utilization, contributing to 's reputation for reliable, high-density WLAN deployments.

Acquisition by Hewlett Packard Enterprise

On March 2, 2015, Hewlett-Packard Company announced its agreement to acquire Aruba Networks in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $3 billion, or $24.67 per share, representing a premium to Aruba's recent trading prices. The acquisition was motivated by HP's need to strengthen its enterprise mobility and networking capabilities amid declining sales in its personal systems division, including PCs, as the company shifted focus toward high-growth areas like wireless infrastructure to address the rising demand for mobile-first workplaces. The deal closed on May 19, 2015, shortly before HP's corporate split into and (HPE) on November 1, 2015, with 's operations assigned to the enterprise-focused HPE. Following the completion, was rebranded as HPE Aruba Networking and maintained significant operational independence as a wholly-owned , led by 's co-founder and Chief Strategy and Technology Officer Keerti Melkote, who assumed the role of Senior Vice President and General Manager of the new unit reporting to HPE's Enterprise Group leadership. 's fiscal 2014 revenue of $729 million was expected to contribute immediately to HPE's growth, targeting expansion in the $18 billion campus networking market. Strategically, the acquisition aimed to merge Aruba's expertise in mobility solutions with HPE's established wired switching , enabling the development of comprehensive end-to-end campus networking offerings that simplify deployment and enhance for enterprises adopting 802.11ac and -integrated environments. In early integration efforts, HPE established a dedicated Networking Business Unit centered on Aruba's technologies, which were positioned to bolster HPE's Helion platform through improved mobility services and to integrate with existing solutions for unified threat management across wired and networks. This structure preserved Aruba's channel model and brand while leveraging HPE's global scale to accelerate innovation in secure, converged networking.

Post-Acquisition Developments

Following the acquisition by (HPE) in May 2015, Aruba Networks underwent significant integration and rebranding efforts, operating initially as "Aruba, a company." By 2016, it had evolved into HPE Aruba Networking, emphasizing its role within HPE's Intelligent Edge portfolio, alongside the expansion of the Aruba Central cloud platform for unified across wired, , and WAN environments. Aruba Central, originally launched in 2014, saw post-acquisition enhancements in 2016 to support hybrid cloud deployments and simplified IT operations. This period marked robust growth, with the Intelligent Edge segment (primarily driven by Aruba) reaching $2.9 billion in in 2020 (ended October 31, 2020), driven by demand for secure mobility solutions. In 2018, expanded its offerings into edge-to-cloud security through the introduction of the SD-Branch solution, which integrated , LAN, and security features via partnerships with , , and for advanced threat protection and zero-trust policies extending from branch to . This built on Aruba's ClearPass platform for policy enforcement, addressing vulnerabilities beyond traditional perimeters. Amid the in 2020, Aruba responded by offering 90-day free Instant Access Point VPN (IAP-VPN) licenses to enable secure remote access for distributed workforces, alongside tools like VIA client for mobile connectivity. By 2023, integrated AI-driven AIOps into its Central platform, providing for root-cause analysis, automated troubleshooting, and network optimization to reduce manual interventions and enhance IT efficiency. A major milestone occurred on July 2, 2025, when HPE completed its $14 billion acquisition of , merging Juniper's AI-native routing and data center capabilities with Aruba's campus and edge networking strengths to form a comprehensive HPE Networking business unit, though the deal faced subsequent legal challenges, including a , 2025, court ruling permitting U.S. states to intervene. Led by former Juniper CEO Rami Rahim, this unit focuses on AI-powered, cloud-native portfolios for enterprise and service provider markets. Aruba's workforce expanded from approximately 2,000 employees pre-acquisition in 2015 to over 5,600 by 2025, reflecting investments in AI, , and hybrid amid evolving market demands for secure, intelligent connectivity.

Products and Technologies

Wireless Networking Solutions

Aruba Networks' networking solutions primarily revolve around high-performance access points (APs) designed for enterprise environments, supporting advanced standards to deliver reliable connectivity in dense deployments. The flagship 500 Series APs, such as the AP-550 model, operate on (802.11ax) technology and provide an aggregate data rate of up to 5.95 Gbps using HE80/HE40 configurations, enabling efficient handling of high-density scenarios through features like multi-user multiple-input multiple-output (MU-MIMO). These APs also integrate (BLE) and radios, facilitating seamless IoT device connectivity for applications ranging from to smart . Building on this foundation, Aruba's 600 Series APs, including the 630 and 650 models, extend support to 6E by incorporating the 6 GHz band, which offers up to 3.6 Gbps maximum combined data rates and enhanced capacity for tri-band operations in crowded networks. Similarly, the 700 Series introduces 7 (802.11be) capabilities in models like the 720 and 730, delivering even higher throughput and lower latency through advanced MU-MIMO and improved , ideal for bandwidth-intensive enterprise deployments. These solutions leverage a controller-based rooted in Aruba's early innovations from , utilizing ArubaOS to manage APs centrally via protocols such as 802.11k for neighbor reports and 802.11v for BSS transition management, which optimize client and enable precise location services. ArubaOS further supports zero-touch provisioning (ZTP), allowing automatic configuration of devices through DHCP and integration with the Activate service, minimizing manual setup in large-scale installations. In enterprise campus use cases, these APs support up to 5.95 Gbps throughput per unit, ensuring robust performance for thousands of simultaneous users across educational, corporate, and healthcare settings. also integrates its wireless solutions with private networks, creating hybrid environments that combine Wi-Fi APs with small cell radios for enhanced coverage in retail and industrial applications; by 2025, this unification occurs through HPE Networking Central, providing a single cloud-based platform for managing , private , wired, and elements to streamline operations and reduce deployment complexity. A key innovation in Aruba's portfolio is Adaptive Radio (), an algorithm-driven feature within ArubaOS that dynamically monitors the RF environment to adjust channel selection, transmit power, and radio profiles, thereby mitigating and optimizing coverage in dense deployments. employs metrics like the Ideal Coverage Index and Free Channel Index to balance load and avoid overlapping channels, particularly in the 5 GHz and 6 GHz bands, while integrating with tools like ClientMatch for proactive device steering. of these solutions is primarily handled through Aruba Central, a platform that offers AI-powered insights for ongoing optimization.

Wired Networking Infrastructure

Aruba's wired networking infrastructure focuses on the CX series of Ethernet switches, designed to deliver high-performance backbone connectivity for , branch, and environments. The core portfolio features models such as the CX 6300 and CX 6400, which support speeds up to 100 Gbps on QSFP28 ports and extend to 400 Gbps in compatible configurations, leveraging HPE's seventh-generation ASIC architecture for low-latency, non-blocking forwarding that optimizes operations. These switches provide scalable Layer 3 routing, multi-gigabit Ethernet interfaces, and modular expansion options to handle diverse traffic patterns in enterprise settings. The switches also support spanning tree protocols including Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) and Multiple Spanning Tree Protocol (MSTP), with some datasheets emphasizing RSTP because MSTP, the default mode, is backward compatible with RSTP-enabled networks. The architecture emphasizes stackable and modular designs for resilient campus core and aggregation layers, with high-end variants like the CX 9300 achieving up to 25.6 Tbps of switching capacity to support massive bandwidth requirements. Aruba ClearPass integrates seamlessly with these switches to enforce network access control (NAC) on wired ports, enabling role-based policy application and visibility for connected endpoints. This setup ensures secure, automated onboarding while maintaining through features like Virtual Switching Extension (VSX) for redundancy. Key capabilities include dynamic segmentation powered by VXLAN and EVPN protocols, which allow the extension of VLANs and subnets across the network fabric to create isolated virtual overlays without manual reconfiguration, enhancing security and flexibility for multi-tenant environments. The switches also support , delivering up to 90W per port to power resource-intensive devices like IP cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones, reducing cabling complexity in campus deployments. Following the 2010 acquisition of Azalea Networks, which strengthened Aruba's overall networking expertise, the wired portfolio expanded to include edge-oriented switches for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), such as the CX 6000 and CX 6100 series, offering cost-effective gigabit access with optional PoE for branch offices. In 2025, HPE Aruba Networking introduced updates to the CX lineup, doubling performance in data center distributed services switches to accommodate AI workloads, with enhanced throughput and AI-optimized features like low-latency QoS for high-performance computing. These solutions enable unified management alongside wireless infrastructure through platforms like Aruba Central.

Network Management and Security Platforms

Aruba Central, launched in 2014 as a SaaS platform, serves as the cornerstone of HPE Aruba Networking's management offerings, enabling AIOps-driven orchestration for zero-touch provisioning and configuration of networks supporting over 10,000 devices per deployment. This platform integrates models for , proactively identifying performance issues and risks across wired, , and WAN environments to minimize downtime and enhance operational efficiency. By March 2024, Aruba Central managed four million network devices globally, serving one billion unique endpoints and demonstrating its scalability for enterprise-grade deployments. Complementing Aruba Central, the security suite includes ClearPass Policy Manager, which enforces through integration with protocols like and 802.1X, ensuring secure authentication for users, devices, and IoT endpoints across multivendor networks. ClearPass supports downloadable user roles and device profiling to dynamically apply policies, while IntroSpect provides user and entity behavior analytics (UEBA) to detect insider threats and advanced persistent threats via machine learning-based behavioral analysis of network traffic patterns. These tools collectively enable threat hunting and incident response by correlating user behaviors with network events, reducing false positives in alerts. The security offerings also include HPE Aruba Networking Security Service Edge (SSE), a cloud-delivered platform that integrates Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA), Secure Web Gateway (SWG), Cloud Access Security Broker (CASB), and Digital Experience Monitoring to enable secure, seamless access to applications and resources from any device or location. SSE emphasizes zero-trust principles by providing least-privilege access as a modern alternative to legacy VPNs, incorporating advanced features such as malware scanning, threat intelligence, and data loss prevention to address modern threats including ransomware and phishing. A 2024 SANS Institute whitepaper by Dave Shackleford positively evaluates HPE Aruba Networking SSE for its innovative approach to addressing contemporary security challenges and facilitating secure access to corporate resources from anywhere. In Gartner Peer Insights, HPE Aruba Networking SSE is rated 4.7 out of 5 based on limited reviews, with users highlighting its ease of management, cloud-native architecture, ZTNA capabilities, and support for zero-trust strategies. Additionally, HPE (incorporating post-2025 Juniper Networks acquisition products) receives a 4.7 out of 5 rating in Network Firewalls based on 266 reviews. These platforms complement ClearPass policy enforcement and IntroSpect behavioral analytics to strengthen the overall zero-trust security framework. Aruba's platforms offer unified visibility into wired and wireless operations through intuitive dashboards and RESTful APIs that facilitate workflows, such as scripted configurations and integrations with third-party tools. Compliance features support standards like GDPR and HIPAA via data encryption, audit logging, and policy enforcement, including micro-segmentation to isolate sensitive workloads and limit lateral movement in case of breaches. In 2025, enhancements introduced an AI-powered Networking Copilot within Central, leveraging to assist administrators in root-cause analysis and automated troubleshooting, further streamlining incident resolution at scale.

Emerging Innovations

Aruba's Edge Services Platform (ESP) incorporates AI and machine learning for advanced AIOps, enabling predictive maintenance through analysis of network telemetry data to anticipate and resolve issues before they impact operations. As part of this, the platform's WAN assurance features use ML algorithms to monitor and optimize wide-area network performance, reducing downtime by proactively identifying anomalies in traffic patterns and device health. In 2025, HPE Aruba Networking introduced a Copilot tool integrated into its management platforms, allowing administrators to perform natural language queries for tasks like troubleshooting and configuration, leveraging large language models trained on domain-specific data. For private 5G and , 's CX series edge switches support to deliver low-latency connectivity tailored for IoT deployments, ensuring prioritized bandwidth for time-sensitive applications in industrial and retail environments. At NRF 2025, announced partnerships with IoT ecosystem providers to offer retail-ready bundles combining CX switches, cellular bridges, and 7 access points, facilitating seamless integration for (AR) and (VR) experiences in high-density store settings. These solutions enable edge processing of IoT data streams, supporting real-time for inventory management and without reliance on latency. Sustainability initiatives in Aruba's designs emphasize energy efficiency, with AI-driven dynamic in access points optimizing consumption based on usage patterns to maintain coverage while minimizing waste. Following HPE's acquisition of in July 2025, Aruba integrated elements of Juniper's Mist AI platform to enhance intent-based networking, automating policy enforcement and for greener operations that can reduce overall power usage in enterprise networks. This integration supports up to 30% energy savings in connected environments through optimized IoT sensor deployments and standby modes, as demonstrated in collaborative workplace solutions. These innovations position Aruba to address AI-driven demands by scaling network infrastructure for clusters, with updated CX distributed services switches doubling throughput to handle intensive data flows in AI training environments. By enabling secure, low-latency transport for petabyte-scale data across edge-to-cloud architectures, Aruba's solutions facilitate the growth of generative AI applications in sectors like retail and , where real-time processing of large datasets is essential.

Corporate Structure and Operations

Leadership and Key Executives

Aruba Networks was founded in by Keerti Melkote and Pankaj Manglik, with Merwyn Andrade joining early as the first in . Melkote, who initially served as , later became CEO and led the company through its growth and the 2015 acquisition by (HPE), where he continued as president of the Aruba business unit until 2021. Manglik acted as the founding CEO, focusing on early product strategy and innovation in switching, before departing in 2006 to pursue new ventures. Andrade contributed to the core technology architecture for secure wireless networks and retired from the company in 2008 after six years. Following the 2015 acquisition, 's leadership integrated into HPE, with Melkote driving strategic direction until his departure in 2021, after which Phil Mottram assumed the role of senior vice president and general manager of HPE Networking. Mottram, a long-time executive, emphasized cloud-native and advancements during his tenure from 2021 to 2025. In September 2025, Mottram transitioned to executive vice president and chief sales officer for HPE, effective November 1, overseeing global sales across servers, hybrid cloud, and networking segments. The completion of HPE's $14 billion acquisition of on July 2, 2025, led to the formation of a unified HPE Networking business unit, now headed by Rami Rahim as executive vice president, president, and general manager. Rahim, former CEO of , leads the combined portfolio encompassing 's wireless and wired solutions alongside 's routing and AI-driven technologies. Melkote's vision was instrumental in disrupting traditional wired networking paradigms by pioneering secure, mobile-first architectures that enabled enterprise mobility. Post-acquisition developments under leaders like Mottram and now Rahim have shifted focus toward AI-native networking, integrating for automated operations and security across hybrid environments. This evolution builds on Aruba's foundational innovations while addressing modern demands for AI-optimized infrastructure. The leadership transition following the Juniper acquisition has seen no major executive upheavals, with HPE emphasizing continuity to preserve 's innovative, entrepreneurial ethos within its larger structure. Rahim's integration strategy prioritizes cross-pollination of and technologies, such as combining 's edge AI capabilities with 's Mist AI platform, to foster a unified culture of rapid innovation.

Global Presence and Financial Overview

Aruba Networks, a (HPE) company, is headquartered in , with key research and development (R&D) centers in Bangalore, , and , . The organization maintains a robust global footprint, including sales and support offices in over 30 countries across , , , and other regions, enabling it to serve customers in more than 100 countries through direct operations and partner networks. As of 2025, Aruba employs approximately 5,667 people worldwide, contributing to HPE's broader workforce of over 17,000 in networking and related fields. The company supports diversity initiatives in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), including programs like HPE's STEM Discovery Day events and lesson plans aimed at engaging underrepresented youth to promote inclusion and innovation in tech communities. To enhance supply chain resilience, Aruba leverages manufacturing partnerships in Asia, optimizing production and distribution for its networking hardware amid global demands. Prior to its acquisition by HP (now HPE), Aruba generated $729 million in for 2014. Integrated into HPE, the Networking segment—which encompasses 's contributions—accounted for approximately $4.5 billion in in 2024, representing about 15% of HPE's total $30.1 billion annual . Following HPE's 2025 acquisition of , the Networking segment reported 54% year-over-year growth in the third quarter of fiscal 2025 and is projected to achieve 14-16% overall growth for the full year, bolstering HPE's enterprise value with a exceeding $30 billion. Aruba holds a leadership position in the enterprise networking market, recognized as a Leader in the 2025 for and in the 2025 IDC MarketScape for Worldwide Enterprise Wireless LAN, with a substantial global share driven by its AI-native solutions. These reports emphasize HPE Aruba Networking's strengths in integrated security features, including Zero Trust network access, AI-powered threat detection, dynamic segmentation, and security-first infrastructure.

References

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