CSPs need to upgrade their access network capacity to accommodate the explosive growth of video streaming services, SaaS and cloud-based applications, and IoT devices. Residential Central Office Re-architected as a Data Center (R-CORD) provides an architecture for access network virtualization by combining SDN, NFV, and open source software on open hardware platforms.
Building the Next Generation Access Network
The access network requires significant performance improvements (1GBPS and beyond) to handle high quality video (e.g. 4K), off load wireless data, and compete with emerging wireless data options (e.g. fixed wireless and 5G). The next generation access network must be cost effective (lower CAPEX), operationally efficient (lower OPEX), and enable the development of new services. The new access network should be easy to upgrade and provide seamless integration with existing operator back office systems.
R-CORD Provides the Platform for Access Network Virtualization
Residential Central Office Re-architected as a Data Center (R-CORD) provides an architecture for access network virtualization by combining SDN, NFV, and open source software on open hardware platforms. By decoupling software from hardware and leveraging the power of the open source software community, R-CORD enables CSPs to cost-effectively upgrade their access networks to meet future service demands. R-CORD combined with open network software provides the following benefits:
- Ability to cost effectively upgrade the access network to support higher capacity and speeds.
- Improves the operational efficiency of the access network
- Enables the delivery of new and improved applications, including self- service, bandwidth on demand, and enhanced security
Radisys Delivers Open Network Platforms
Radisys develops high performance software and integrated systems for the communications industry. It has over 30 years’ experience in high-performance hardware, open systems, and telecom software expertise. Radisys is a premier systems integrator for R- CORD and open access network software. Radisys is a pioneer in early R-CORD implementation and is working closely with the partners to integrate virtualized network software.
Recommendations for CSPs
CSPs are actively upgrading their access network (e.g. deployment of deep fiber) to meet their customers demands for increased bandwidth. Network virtualization (NFV) provides proven benefits to network operations. A well planned upgrade of the access network will enable continued migration to high speeds, reduce operating costs, improve customer experience, and enable operators to offer applications with flexibility of price, performance and quality of services.
R-CORD is the standard platform for network access virtualization. Open network software is becoming available to power R-CORD platforms. Given the complexity of this transformation, CSPs will require trusted partners to integrate the technology pieces to deliver the virtualized access network. This partner should have deep telecom network experience, be able to support open hardware platforms, and the ability to integrate a wealth of open source software with the access network platform.
For more details see the White Paper: Deploying R-CORD: Achieving service innovations and benefits from access network virtualization.
