GERMANTOWN, Md. -- Hughes Network Systems (HNS), a provider of broadband satellite services, and Inktomi Corp., developer of scalable Internet infrastructure software, announced a broad strategic relationship encompassing the build-out of a global satellite caching and content distribution infrastructure, and a development and technology reseller agreement.

The multifaceted agreement is intended to move the edge of the network from regional points of presence (POPs) into homes and offices around the world, avoiding network congestion.

HNS will integrate Inktomi Traffic Server network caches at its network operations centers to provide delivery of IP-based applications directly to businesses and consumers. HNS and Inktomi will also cooperate on the development of new satellite-optimized caching and content distribution software that will be embedded within hundreds of thousands of HNS satellite receivers in homes and businesses worldwide, and will operate as remote extensions to the Traffic Server caches deployed.

HNS will bundle Inktomi Traffic Server caching software with its DirecPC satellite platform to provide an integrated end-to-end caching and content distribution solution.

"The deployment of a next-generation content distribution and caching infrastructure is strategic to HNS' mission of being the global leader in satellite-based broadband services and we're excited to be teaming with Inktomi on this initiative," said Pradman Kaul, chairman and chief executive officer of Hughes Network Systems . "The new capabilities resulting from this alliance will dramatically increase the performance of IP over satellite and broaden our services capabilities; thus, greatly benefiting our business and consumer end users."

"Inktomi's leading caching and content distribution software provides core enabling technology for leading global broadband access networks such as HNS' consumer and enterprise platforms," said David Peterschmidt, president and chief executive officer of Inktomi. "Inktomi and HNS share a common vision of redefining and extending the edge to achieve maximum network performance and end-user satisfaction. We look forward to working closely with Hughes on building out its network infrastructure to enable advanced edge delivery of broadband content and value-added services."