Alcatel-Lucent, Ericsson and Nokia have joined a consortium of vendors working with Verizon to design a software defined networking architecture for the US operator.
The other partners include Cisco and Juniper Networks. The new framework is aimed to give Verizon greater operational efficiencies and allow it to speed up the rollout of new services by using a centralised controller and orchestrator.
The companies have written an SDN architecture document, which lays out the interface specifications and reference architectures. It also details the needs for both the control layer and forwarding box functions.
The US operator is using its labs in California, Florida and Massachusetts to trial next generation network architecture, in addition to its commercial data centres on the east and west coasts of the United States.
Roger Gurnani, Verizon Chief Information and Technology Architect, commented: “Verizon and our key technology partners have always focused on providing high-performance networks for our customers, and with this SDN architecture we will continue to ensure our network and services meet the needs of our customers, today and in the future.”
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Hans Vestberg, Ericsson President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “We look forward to joining forces with Verizon in defining the industry shift towards SDN-based network architecture. Our joint efforts started in 2009, with the successful large scale introduction of LTE. We are now ready to leverage Ericsson’s strength in software and services to provide a robust network transformation that will benefit Verizon and its customers.”
Rajeev Suri, Nokia President and Chief Executive Officer, added: “Cloud technologies hold the promise for true innovation in our industry. We are pleased to extend our strong relationship with Verizon beyond core software, rich communication technologies and services into the exciting area of software defined network solutions for the next generation of their intelligent, connected network.”
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