14 DAY TRIAL // Cupertino-based Apple has decided to end its contract with server supplier Super Micro Computer last year after it discovered that one of the data center servers that it purchased was affected by an unnamed security vulnerability.
A report from The Information reveals that Apple first discovered the security issues in early 2016 on a server that was used to power its web-based services, with no other specifics provided. Both Siri and App Store search features were said to be powered by the compromised server.
According to the report citing Super Micro senior vice president of technology Tau Leng, the iPhone maker contacted Super Micro Computer to discuss the issue, and after a preliminary inspection, it looked like Apple was served a bad firmware update that affected the server it was installed on.
Tau Leng said his company wanted to continue the investigation with Apple and even requested the company to provide more information, such as the firmware version, but Cupertino suspended talks with no other details offered to Super Micro Computer. Furthermore, Apple even returned some servers to Super Micro amid more security concerns.
Apple planning to build its own servers?
Apple, however, told the named source that it did not receive a bad firmware and customer information wasn’t put at risk, but the company refused to provide any other details. Instead, it offered a vague statement that included no hint regarding what exactly happened with the server.
“Apple is deeply committed to protecting the privacy and security of our customers and the data we store. We are constantly monitoring for any attacks on our systems, working closely with vendors and regularly checking equipment for malware,” Apple said.
There are voices claiming that Apple might be planning to build its own servers, and there’s speculation that stepping away from Super Micro brings the company closer to this goal, though there’s still no confirmation from the firm that it’s indeed looking into the server business.
In the meantime, however, Apple has already signed deals with other server suppliers, including ZT (a company that Cupertino was already working with) and Inspur.