France-based international communications services provider Orange has created a joint development project with ADTRAN, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADTN) that will see the two companies collaborate on the application of software-defined networking (SDN) to fixed access networks. The effort is part of Orange’s Access Renewal and Evolution Strategy (ARES) program.
The partnership agreement will see the two companies investigate, test, and propose technology that will improve the performance of Orange’s fixed access networks, as well as shorten time-to-market for new services and reduce network energy consumption and costs. Major goals of the program include:
- Creation of a roadmap for the possible introduction of SDN capabilities
- Ensuring that network elements can integrate with third party management, control, and/or orchestration platforms and with other network devices.
- Enable conformity to Orange’s current and future engineering rules for GPON and XGS-PON architectures.
ADTRAN says that the effort toward these goals will include architecture studies, development of technical requirements for next-generation network nodes, cost models, prototype evaluations, field trials, and preparation for potential field rollout.
“For Orange, the evolution of our Fixed Access Optical Network represents a challenge and opportunity as we look to extend the range and reach of our networks,” said Christian Gacon, Orange vice president, Wireline Networks & Infrastructure. “We are delighted to begin this development with ADTRAN, based on the company’s leadership in developing software-defined access network architecture and our combined vision for how the fiber access network should evolve. This work will ensure that Orange can maximize the fiber broadband opportunity, create new business models, and deliver an enriched service experience for our customers. This development program underscores our commitment to being a leader in each segment of the network.”
Among other efforts within the field of software-defined access, ADTRAN was a partner in the development of ONF’s SDN Enabled Broadband Access Reference Design (SEBA-RD; see “ONF puts new strategic plan pieces in place”).
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