Internet router and software designer Juniper Networks, Inc., of Sunnyvale, said it's planning to open a research and development center in the Chinese capital, Beijing, by the end of the year.

The facility, announced by CEO and Chairman Scott Kriens in Beijing Thursday, will focus on developing network and security products for small and medium businesses in the world market. Kriens said the Beijing center will leverage the Chinese roots of NetScreen Technologies, which was acquired by Juniper Networks last April. NetScreen's founders originated from mainland China.