Nortel optical platforms picked for SURFnet6 research network

January 25, 2006 Amsterdam, The Netherlands -- SURFnet announced that it has launched its SURFnet6, a self-configurable intelligent optical network based on optical platforms from Nortel. According to a press release, the high-grade computer network, specially reserved for higher education and research in the Netherlands, is designed to provide platform for researchers working on broadband intensive applications such as high-energy physics and medical research.

The transmission infrastructure was built using products from Nortel's next generation optical and Metro Ethernet portfolio, including the company's Common Photonic Layer (CPL) and Optical Multiservice Edge 1000 and 6500 product families, as well as its Optical Metro 5000 and Metro Ethernet Routing Switch (MERS) 8600 platforms.

"We are convinced that this powerful and agile optical network will offer Dutch research and education an excellent international starting position. The new network is fully equipped to handle the anticipated growth in Internet traffic over the next years and its lightpath services offer unprecedented opportunities for researchers," comments Kees Neggers, managing director of SURFnet. "The next phase of network development will introduce additional agility and automation at the optical layer with the latest photonics and control plane technologies from Nortel."

Nortel says the network incorporates a high-speed hybrid optical and packet switching system with native IPv4, IPv6, and light path provisioning over a single transmission infrastructure for easy configuration of broadband access. The company says the network is managed via a control plane for efficient network administration and enhanced traffic restoration.

According to Nortel, the hybrid nature of the SURFnet6 network is designed to enable it to tune precisely to the bandwidth demand of users. The network can set up optical light paths for point-to-point connections that give large data streams their dedicated path outside of the IP routed network. The company says this feature improves the capacity, quality, and security of connections.

"SURFnet6 is a showcase for the cutting-edge use of adaptive optical intelligent networks. Its innovative and advanced use of next-generation optical networking is creating today's reference model for access and collaboration between researchers and institutions," concludes Peter Newcombe, EMEA vice-president of Nortel's Wireline and Optical divisions.