O2 UK is piloting traffic management software in central London in a bid to improve its data performance on its 3G network.
The operator has partnered with network capacity specialist Vasona to deploy the vendor’s SmartAIR1000 edge application controller and its SmartVISION analysis suite.
The pilot spans 700 cell sites across the UK’s capital and follows wider tests of the technology across parent Telefónica’s international network.
During the pilot, O2 will be able to have real-time visibility of its network traffic, as well as run session management on individual cells at times of high demand. Vasona’s edge controller monitors traffic at cell level and moves to lower latency and avoid packet loss when the cell is overburdened. The analytics software allows operators to view real-time and historic performance across individual cells.
According to research issued by Rootmetrics last year, O2 came last among the UK’s four operators for mobile internet and speed performance.
Tommy Björkberg, head of network strategy and programs for Telefónica UK, said: “Working with Vasona Networks on mobile traffic management and visibility is part of Telefónica’s commitment to great customer experiences. We field tested in one of the world’s most densely-populated markets to confirm the Vasona platforms’ abilities to benefit mobile data performance for our customers. This pilot deployment represents the next phase of our work together.”
Biren Sood, CEO of Vasona Networks, said: “Telefónica UK is implementing a mobile traffic management solution that also provides cell-level insight to enhance network planning and to speed resolution of issues. Our work with Telefónica is demonstration of how Vasona Networks collaborates with mobile network operators worldwide on assuring the best consumer experiences.”
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