A True End-to-End Disaggregated Network Architecture

A common problem of traditional networking

Years of patches and upgrades have transformed SP networks into mazes of service-specific equipment, each requiring unique management skills, inflexible software update cycles, and a vast inventory of spare parts. Many networks even need dedicated teams for different network domains.

This approach not only increases operational costs but also restricts SPs’ ability to innovate. Introducing new services becomes a months-long process due to the complicated operational matrix that needs realignment for each change. Additionally, it leads to a pileup of unused, idle hardware resources that cannot be easily repurposed for other services.

The path to a true end-to-end disaggregated network architecture

Rather than continuing with more network upgrades and patches, SPs now have decided to shift their approach with disaggregation. SPs are adopting not only disaggregated solutions but also a new disaggregated network architecture that delivers required flexibility, simplicity and cost savings.

At DriveNets, our deep hands-on partnerships with multiple tier-1 SPs have shown us that despite facing similar challenges, each SP can pursue different approaches for network design. Therefore, our standard white box offering is designed to meet all requirements and use cases, core to edge, while providing our key benefits of no vendor lock, cloud-like operations, and software-driven innovation.

Today, we are strengthening our commitment to deliver a true end-to-end disaggregated network architecture with our new Broadcom Qumran 2C+ ASIC-based white box. The new standalone networking solution is optimized for mass deployment across wide geographies, which are typical to edge use cases. This new 2-rack-unit box allows SPs to utilize a disaggregated networking solution in remote locations across tens, hundreds, and even thousands of sites. In addition to hardware flexibility, our DriveNets Network Cloud software offers complete lifecycle management automation. This zero-touch provisioning (ZTP) capability enables SPs to rapidly deploy thousands of units in remote locations. Minimal on-site expertise is required, resulting in simplified deployment and speedy execution. Furthermore, the solution streamlines supply chain management, hardware sparing, and more.

Putting the needs of the service provider first

Many service providers’ network architectures were built based on their vendors’ recommendations. This made sense, especially for tier-2 service providers; when a networking giant claims thousands of networking experts have analyzed the market and then proposes a solution, you tend to apply it.

Our approach is different. We start conversations with SPs by asking “What do you need?” Designed for any use case or architecture, our hardware-agnostic software solution supports any ASIC, ODM or optic device. Even our DriveNets software can be replaced at any time without jeopardizing hardware investments.

This flexibility allows us to fulfill any vision the SP may have. Need to scale up? We offer a cluster solution. Need to scale out? Standalone solutions can work too. Need large routing tables, high capacity, or advanced traffic engineering features like segment routing and ECMP (equal-cost multi-path)? No problem, we deliver it all.

Service providers who choose disaggregation are not only taking back control over their network but also setting the stage for their business success. DriveNets Network Cloud is continuously expanding its offerings to ensure that SPs are well-equipped to pursue and execute their specific agendas.

Frequently Ask Questions

• What new approach have service providers decided top adopt?
  Rather than continuing with more network upgrades and patches, service providers now have decided to shift their approach with disaggregation. SPs are adopting not only disaggregated solutions but also a new disaggregated network architecture that delivers required flexibility, simplicity and cost savings.
• How is the DriveNets approach different?
  DriveNets starts with conversations with service providers by asking “What do you need?” Designed for any use case or architecture, the DriveNets hardware-agnostic software solution supports any ASIC, ODM or optic device. Even the DriveNets software can be replaced at any time without jeopardizing hardware investments.
• What does the DriveNets flexibility offer to service providers?
  If a service provider needs to scale up, then DriveNets offers a cluster solution. If a service provider needs to scale out, then DriveNets offers a standalone solution that can work.

Additional Resources for Distributed Disaggregated Chassis

• MWC Telecom Transformation – Disaggregation, Software, Cloud
• Why Operators are Embracing Network Disaggregation
• Disaggregation Mythbusters (CloudNets S3 Ep 1)