NETWORK SLICING
NETWORKING
is powered up , it communicates with the network , loads the software and auto-configures through zero-touch provisioning . This drastically reduces the time required to install the device and put it into service . Functional upgrades or device replacements at a later stage enjoy the same benefits .
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NETWORK SLICING
SDAN enables a single physical network to be partitioned into multiple virtual network slices . Each slice contains selected access nodes , line cards , ports , or even individual customer-premises equipment ( CPE ). Network tenants can operate the slice just as they would a real network . Slices can host different services ( think residential broadband vs business broadband vs mobile anyhaul ) which maximises an operator ’ s use of its infrastructure and , hence , improves return on investment ( ROI ). Alternatively , slices can host different service providers , opening up new revenue opportunities ( e . g . wholesale ) or business opportunities ( e . g . co-investment ). Or both .
Slicing also derisks new product introduction . The current ‘ inside-out ’ approach sees operators investing significant time and resources in building a wholesale product and developing the OSS before exposing it to customers who may not buy it .
Programmability and automation within a virtual network slice allow operators to be far more agile and respond quickly to customer demand . They can build an ‘ outside-in ’ ecosystem in which customers pick and
JULY 2019