Verizon sets software defined networking course
Verizon said Tuesday that it will retool its network around a software defined networking architecture.
The aim for Verizon is to create a more nimble network that can roll out services for customers quickly. Verizon should also be able to consolidate networks and become more efficient.
Generally speaking, software defined networking (SDN) uses a central applications to control and orchestrate network traffic. Software defined networks can also more easily scale and automate much like virtualization does for compute.
Verizon didn't offer much detail about its architecture or what it will look ultimately look like. The telecom giant, however, did say it will work closely with its partners to build out its SDN architecture and that projects have been underway.
Those partners include the likes of Alcatel-Lucent, Cisco, Ericsson, Juniper Networks and Nokia Networks. With that lineup of vendors it's clear that Verizon plans to have an open standard to connect infrastructure together.
So far, Verizon and its vendors have penned an architecture document with interface specifications and reference and requirement documents. Verizon's next-gen network is being tested in its labs around the U.S.