Alkira
Overview
Alkira is a cloud networking company that offers network infrastructure as-a-service to simplify and secure enterprise cloud networks. Founded in 2018 by Amir Khan and Atif Khan, Alkira is headquartered in San Jose, California. The company has raised significant investments, including a $100 million Series C funding round in May 2024, bringing their total funding to $176 million. Alkira provides businesses with a platform to manage multi-cloud environments efficiently and securely.
Recent Developments
Over the past couple of years, Alkira has made several strides in the cloud networking industry:
- May 2024: Alkira raised $100 million in a Series C funding round led by Tiger Global Management. This funding aims to accelerate the company’s growth and enhance its multi-cloud networking solutions.
- September 2024: The company announced its availability on Google Cloud Marketplace, completing its presence across major cloud platforms, including AWS and Microsoft Azure, providing streamlined procurement and deployment processes.
- July 2024: Alkira was named a finalist in CRN’s 2024 Tech Innovator Awards for its Extranet as-a-Service in the Cloud Tools/Management category. This recognition highlights their innovative approach in the cloud networking domain.
- 2023-2024: Alkira has continued to expand its Cloud Exchange Point (CXP) footprint, including entering the Chinese market, to offer seamless global network connectivity.
- August 2023: Alkira and Itential integrated their platforms to simplify the deployment and management of multi-cloud and hybrid cloud networks, addressing the complexities of cloud-based infrastructures.
- November 2023: The company earned a spot on CRN’s 2023 Stellar Startups list, recognizing its contribution to the cloud computing industry.
Company Information
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2018 |
| Headquarters | San Jose, California, United States |
| Founders | Amir Khan, Atif Khan |
| Revenue | Not disclosed |
| Profits | Not disclosed |
| Key Investors | Tiger Global Management, Kleiner Perkins, Sequoia Capital, Koch Disruptive Technologies |
| Industry | Cloud Networking, Technology |
| Number of Employees | 75 in 2022 |
Early History
Alkira was founded in 2018 by brothers Amir and Atif Khan after their successful venture with Viptela, a company specializing in SD-WAN technology, which was acquired by Cisco in 2017. The founders identified the growing complexity and need for simplified networking solutions in multi-cloud environments, which led to the creation of Alkira. The aim was to develop a comprehensive cloud network infrastructure platform that could facilitate seamless integration and management of cloud services without the traditional constraints of physical hardware.
Company Profile and Achievements
Alkira has made significant strides since its inception. The company’s core offering, the Alkira Cloud Services Exchange™, empowers enterprises by delivering a globally unified network infrastructure as-a-service. Key achievements include:
- Establishing partnerships with global enterprises such as Koch Industries and Warner Music Group, highlighting its trusted solutions in the industry.
- Continuously enhancing its platform to include secure connectivity models, cloud exchange points, and integration capabilities with major cloud providers.
- Recognition in the industry through various awards and acknowledgments, such as the GigaOm Radar Report where Alkira was named a 'Leader' and 'Fast Mover'.
- Successfully expanding its cloud networking solutions to include Extranet-as-a-Service, addressing specific industry use cases like mergers and acquisitions and partner connectivity.
Current Operations and Market Position
Alkira is currently operating as a key player in the cloud networking industry. Its platform supports end-to-end network infrastructure needs for businesses, allowing for flexible, scalable, and secure cloud integrations. Alkira holds a competitive edge by being a pioneer in network infrastructure as-a-service, allowing businesses to avoid the complexities of traditional cloud networking setups. The company’s strategic focus on multi-cloud environments positions it well to capture a significant share of the growing demand for cloud-based networking solutions.
Alkira IPO
Despite having raised substantial funding, there is currently no confirmed news regarding an Alkira IPO. The possibility remains speculative as the company continues to focus on expanding its service offerings and partner networks.
Alkira Competitors
Alkira faces competition from companies such as Netskope, Cradlepoint, and Aryaka Networks, each providing unique networking and security solutions. These competitors have raised significant funding, a testament to the vibrant competition in the cloud networking industry.
Conclusion
Alkira is a transformative force in cloud networking, offering solutions that cater to the demands of a cloud-first world. The company's continual innovation, strong market presence, and strategic partnerships with top-tier enterprises position it as a leader in on-demand network infrastructure services. As cloud adoption continues to grow, Alkira is poised to leverage its innovative solutions to further penetrate the market and potentially explore an IPO in the future.