Youku.com has deployed a new Juniper-based Ethernet switching infrastructure running on the Junos operating system in its data center and content delivery network caching points across the country.
The Juniper Networks EX Series Ethernet Switches with Virtual Chassis fabric technology make it possible for Youku to easily scale its data center and content distribution network to meet fast-growing demand while simplifying network administration.
Since its creation in 2006, Youku has aimed to be the primary source of online video content for Chinese Internet users across all Internet-enabled devices. Youku has adopted a unique hybrid content strategy by licensing long-form, professionally produced content and fostering user generated content and original web videos produced under its brand “Youku Original.”
According to iResearch, Youku had approximately 231 million unique monthly visitors from homes and offices in March 2011 and approximately 52 million from Internet cafes in February 2011. The rapid growth of its online audience and content library, combined with the need to deliver a high-quality streaming service, encouraged Youku to adopt a more scalable, high-performance network infrastructure.