IP Group has returned to back another funding round for Zeetta Networks, a software-defined networking technology developer based on research at University of Bristol.

Zeetta Networks, a UK-based networking technology producer spun out from University of Bristol, has raised £1.6m ($2.1m) in a funding round that included commercialisation firm IP Group.

The round was led by evergreen investment company Bloc Ventures and also included internet of things-focused incubator Breed Reply.

Founded in 2015, Zeetta Networks has developed software-defined networking technology, NetOS, that aims to simplify the control and management of complex ICT systems.

The money will go towards recruitment as Zeetta aims to accelerate commercial traction for NetOS in the enterprise market, particularly as it identifies opportunities in the 5G mobile network operator sector.

The spinout has now raised more than £6m in funding, according to the latest press release, including commitments from the UK’s innovation agency Innovate UK and the European Commission.

IP Group and Breed Reply previously supplied £1.25m in funding in February 2016.

David Leftley, managing partner of Bloc Ventures, said: “We have known the Zeetta team since they spun out from University of Bristol and we were looking for the opportunity to invest in the team and their technology.

“We have been impressed with both the technical and commercial progress achieved to date by the company and we are very excited to participate in this funding round to accelerate the company’s development.”