Microsoft completed the acquisition of Affirmed Networks, a network solutions provider, at a $1.4bn valuation. With Microsoft's focus on 5G and edge computing, Affirmed looks like the ideal acquisition target for a large cloud provider looking to get deeper into the telco business. “As we’ve seen with other technology transformations, we believe that software can play an important role in helping advance 5G and deliver new network solutions that offer step-change advancements in speed, cost and security. There is a significant opportunity for both incumbents and new players across the industry to innovate, collaborate and create new markets, serving the networking and edge computing needs of our mutual customers,” Yousef Khalidi, Microsoft Corporate Vice President.