The power of network functions virtualization (NFV) and universal CPE (uCPE) is openness and choice. But with that choice comes the work of integration and testing. At ADVA, we’re proud to partner with IBM in bringing pre-validated solutions to IBM’s telco and enterprise clients. Now they can get the benefits of choice and the industry’s top suppliers, all orchestrated by IBM’s solutions – and without the headache of assembling components. What does that mean for IBM’s clients in the real world? Let’s take a closer look.

uCPE: open virtualization at the customer site

NFV was invented to break open single-vendor silos and select industry-proven components. NFV means replacing closed and fixed-function devices like routers and firewalls, and instead using dynamic software running on standard servers. 

Let’s talk more about what openness and choice mean. On the hardware side it means being able to select a hosting server that meets the needs of the application. At ADVA, we support the industry’s widest range of standard servers. We also support the industry’s largest choice in software virtual network functions (VNFs) to implement the required networking functions, including SD-WAN, firewall, WAN optimization, routing, service assurance, and others. 

Supporting the move to the telco network cloud

But it’s not enough to provide choice in hardware and software. An edge cloud solution is complete only when a telco operator can deploy and operate it at scale. That’s why we talk about networking, operations and choice. All three are required for a real solution. We’ve touched on choice, so let’s take a closer look at networking and operations.

Today’s network has a wide variety of implementations and protocols. Deployment at the customer site means supporting both Layer 2 and Layer 3 access, as well as models for wireline and wireless access. The virtual switch and interface drivers should be high-speed and efficient. Finally, a secure path must be available for platform management.

Human costs drive the economics of mass deployment, so efficient operations are critical for making the business model work. This includes initial turn-up using zero-touch provisioning and ongoing tools for fault monitoring and troubleshooting. Finally, there must be efficient management of both the VFNs as well as the underlying platform software. 

At ADVA, we’ve provided the tools for networking, operations, and choice. But there may be something missing.

Putting it all together

Tier 1 operators like Verizon, Colt and TPx have technical ability to act as their own system integrators. They can take the best-of-breed components and assemble them into a working system. But what about smaller operators?

IBM takes the components described above and integrates them with IBM’s lifecycle management and orchestration solution. Red Hat’s certified ecosystem and open source solutions, combined with IBM’s telco network cloud ecosystem, offer a hosting platform to meet the needs of smaller operators. Service providers can pick the right components to meet their specific requirements and applications. IBM and its partners like ADVA can then integrate and deliver a system that can be deployed, operated and maintained to deliver class-leading services to end customers. 

By working with IBM, service providers get the benefits of an open and extensible system with integration support. It’s a cost-effective and future-proof approach to innovation.

We’re ready to help

IBM and ADVA stand ready to support you in your telco innovation journey. Let us know how we can help you achieve the benefits of an open and virtualized solution – without the pain.