The duo have announced a strategic collaboration to deliver open virtualized uCPE solutions for service provider and enterprise customers. Built on ADVA’s Ensemble Connector NFVi platform, the new uCPE solutions will enable network operators to easily access VNFs, including software-defined WAN.

VNF is a crucial lever by which large and complicated networks can be modernised, create efficiencies through consolidated use of resources and ensuring easy deployment of advanced cloud footprints for internal and customer use.

uCPE is revolutionising VNF deployment. It allows different network functions to be virtually hosted on common open servers, drastically reducing complexity and maintenance demands. For large enterprises looking to gain greater efficiencies and performance out of their network infrastructure, uCPE is a gamechanger.

But there are major risks when trying to improve a core component such as networks. This is why Dell Technologies partnered with ADVA, which has developed uCPE technologies into its Ensemble Connector NFVi platform. Dell Technologies added its vast infrastructure, transformation and enterprise skills into a strategic collaboration with ADVA to create leading uCPE solutions, powered by the Dell Virtual Edge platforms.

“There is a real need among service providers and enterprises to update network operations to address distributed and cloud-based applications and capitalize on changing economics enabled by cloud models,” explained Tom Burns, SVP and GM, Networking and Solutions, Dell Technologies. “By infusing Open Networking into access networks to the cloud with the Virtual Edge Platform family, Dell EMC can help customers modernize infrastructure and transform operations while automating service delivery and processes,” he continued.

Unleash modern network capabilities

uCPE’s appeal has seen adoption by major networks, including Vodafone, AT&T and Verizon. Its implementation greatly improves numerous network functions such as better performance at the edge and core, enhanced virtual services, better cloud deployment and more. It helps marry the strength of large networks with the power of the cloud, opening doors to innovation. Cloud solution provider can provide data path and virtual hosting functionality at customer premises, in data centres and between network clouds.

For South African network operators, feeling the pressure to expand their revenue streams with digital services, an open uCPE is the catalyst. Attendees at AfricaCom 2019, which is taking place from the 12th to the 14th November in Cape Town, can experience Dell Technologies and ADVA’s solutions at the ADVA stand.

Those at the event are encouraged to stop by for a demo and see how this open platform dramatically improves network services while reducing resource requirements.

Dell Technologies explained that the collaboration gives more organisations access to the Ensemble Harmony Ecosystem, a unique multi-vendor environment with unparalleled variety and choice. It enables customers to avoid vendor lock-in and deploy new service innovation in an instant. Now, with Ensemble Connector running on the Dell Virtual Edge Platform family, many more service providers and enterprises have the freedom to explore product offerings and create try-before-you-buy programs for new dynamic offerings.

The joint initiative consolidates VNF management, including the Ensemble Connector’s enhanced management and orchestration capabilities. It streamlines customer deployments and creates a new level of operational simplicity.

“Today’s network operators need solutions that are optimized for uCPE,” commented James Buchanan, GM, Edge Cloud, ADVA. “Dell EMC’s new uCPE platforms are the answer to that challenge. Combined with our high-performance Ensemble Connector NFVi software, it provides an open architecture to support multiple simultaneous VNFs.

By connecting the enterprise edge to the cloud, it provides unrivalled choice, drives growth and significantly improves end-user experience. Our technology has already succeeded in bringing the power of virtualization to major customers around the world. Now, by joining forces with Dell EMC, we’re enabling more service providers and enterprises to digitalize their infrastructure, both in data centres and out at the branch IT edge,” he added.

Networks are under pressure to do much more with their current infrastructure. The virtualisation of network functions is a clear way forward to achieve those goals, expand services such as cloud and establish new revenue streams. Dell Technologies and ADVA’s collaboration around uCPE can deliver those goals.

Interested parties can visit ADVA’s stand at AfricaCom 2019 in Hall 3, Booth B71, and see for themselves why every enterprise-grade network should consider these solutions.