ADTRAN Adds Cloud Access Networks, VNF to Portfolio

ADTRAN (ADTN) has added more software-defined networking and network function virtualization support to its existing portfolio in an effort to help customers virtualize their existing network solutions.

The network solution provider said the addition of cloud-controlled network programmability and self-activated cloud delivery to its broadband, enterprise and Wi-Fi portfolio will allow customers to make their legacy architectures and customize them to standards of current networks without adding hardware. These software upgrades are expected to deliver more flexible architecture and expand overall network programmability and service delivery automation via SDN and NFV, according to the company.

“ADTRAN has a deep history in designing service delivery platforms for both service provider and enterprise networks. We have helped our customers successfully navigate multiple eras of network transformation and service migration. This transition to service virtualization and network orchestration is no different,” said Jay Wilson, senior vice president of technology and strategy at ADTRAN, in a statement. “Our experience, combined with our commitment to open source software, allows us to optimize the tight interaction between SDN-based networks and virtualized applications. This accelerates the network transformation.”

Additionally, ADTRAN also introduced a new Virtual Network Function solution suite to help its telecom and cable service providers to virtualize their legacy on-premise customer equipment.

The suite, which is built on the company’s networking application software, includes the same feature set and interoperability as ADTRAN’s other networking solutions, but is also expected to simplify NFV deployment by streamlining the amount of virtual machines and guest operating systems in play. ADTRAN said the move to software-based networks will drive down the overall cost of CPE equipment and provide easier ways for companies to scale their services.

The offering virtualizes CPE functions including routers, firewalls, enterprise session border controllers and voice quality monitoring into a single VNF, with the option for customers to choose which functions are virtualized, according to the announcement.

“Giving providers the option to bundle multiple networking functions into a single VNF eases deployment headaches, improves efficiency and lowers expenses,” said Chris Thompson, director, customer device portfolio at ADTRAN. “As service providers’ business models evolve, ADTRAN is designing, integrating and managing the next generation of networking solutions to align with that forward-looking vision.”