HP today launched an app store for SDN applications that aims to make it easier for network operators to find apps that unleash the benefits of software-defined networking.

"The market is shifting to solutions," says Jacob Rapp, global marketing leader for HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) networking. Rather than require network operators to build their own SDN networks out of independently procured software components, HP wants to deliver a platform that allows operators to find those components all in one place, from HP and its partners. (See HP Announces Availability of SDN App Store , HP's Building an SDN App Store.)

The App Store goes live October 1.

HP is working with its developer partners to be sure that the SDN apps integrate well onto networks. "We want to make it as simple as downloading Angry Birds, but we don't want to let the angry packets out onto the network," Rapp says.

The apps are optimized to work with HP's SDN controller and underlying software and hardware, but will run on any software and hardware that runs with standard protocols such as OpenFlow and Netconf.

"The idea of an app store is new to the enterprise, but not to HP," Rapp says. Other HP app stores are available for: Vertica, its big data product; Helion, its OpenStack-based cloud platform; and its Moonshot data center servers.

Apps in the SDN App Store are divided into circles, indicating their level of in-built integration with HP equipment and software. The HP Circle contains HP's own apps, while the Premium Circle has best-selling apps jointly tested by HP and partners. Partner apps are self-tested by partners in HP-provided remote labs in Palo Alto, Calif., and Roseville, Calif., and reviewed by HP.

Community Circle apps can be written by anyone using HP's APIs and documentation.

Want to know more about SDN? Visit Light Reading's dedicated SDN technology content channel.

The two apps initially in the HP Circle are the Network Optimizer, for optimizing Microsoft Corp. (Nasdaq: MSFT) Lync performance, and Network Protector, for securing BYOD. (See HP Debuts SDN Management Software, Switches, HP Beefs Up Its SDN Portfolio)

Additionally, customers can sign up for professional services through the App Store.

Partners with apps initially in the store include BlueCat Networks Inc. , F5 Networks Inc. (Nasdaq: FFIV), GuardiCore, KEMP Technologies Inc. and Real Status.

— Mitch Wagner, , West Coast Bureau Chief, Light Reading. Got a tip about SDN or NFV? Send it to [email protected].