Solutions > Multiservice Networking Solutions

• About Layer 3 Multiservice Networking
• Emerging Multi-Service Network Architecture
• Next-Generation Multi-Service Networks
• Layer 3 in Depth

Emerging Multiservice Network Architecture

Multiservice network architecture combines the multiple layers of legacy architecture into fewer network elements, thereby removing barriers to operational efficiency and flexibility. Convergence creates a unified network that operates cohesively to promote efficiency, enhance service features, and offer cost savings—key elements of today's competitive marketplace.  Emerging network technologies will soon render today's complex mix of network elements obsolete and will help network operators run simpler and more flexible networks. The array of equipment required to string together time-division multiplex (TDM), asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), and frame-based packet-switching functions has become increasingly complicated and inefficient. Network service providers must run separate operations for multiple network overlays. This requires expertise in multiple technologies with equipment from multiple vendors to manage each transport-network type. In addition to the expense of supporting this infrastructure, the length of time required to provision services from such a platform reduces network-operator competitiveness.

The new paradigm for building or expanding the network infrastructure, on the other hand, converges the functions of time-division backbone switches into fewer network elements. The result is an infrastructure that is simpler, less expensive to manage, and capable of delivering more sophisticated and flexible functions. These newer architectures remove barriers to operational efficiency and flexible provisioning by creating a unified network that can be operated and managed cohesively.  Converged architectures combine the functions of multiple layers of the open systems interconnection (OSI) network model into fewer pieces of equipment. This dramatically simplifies network topology and reduces capital investments and the cost of operations. In addition, this design significantly enriches service features because of the intelligent capabilities within the consolidated device.