Intelligent Switching Solution Software Framework

The client was a leading supplier of network infrastructure to carriers and service providers across the world. More than one-third of the world’s wireless calls are routed through the network equpiment supplied by this customer.

The company was designing a multi service Ethernet Edge and Aggregation platform, for a service provider in North America, that would enable VPN and IPTV services over a packet switched network. This was a critical project for the customer and it planned to extend the solution to other service providers in the future.

The client was looking to gain the first mover advantage in the multi feature Ethernet Edge Aggregation devices market. It needed a proven software solution for Ethernet control plane to support a variety of features including routing, switching, security and fault tolerance and management. Integrating these features into a single product platform was complex and required expertise across multiple domains. Assembling a team of domain experts in Ethernet switching, security and IPTV technologies was a daunting and expensive task for the customer. Furthermore, the company was pressed to reduce its R&D costs to develop the product at an attractive price point for service providers.

The complexity for the client was increased even more as it needed to demonstrate, to service providers, that the services offered on a circuit / leased infrastructure could be easily delivered over a packet network as well, with similar levels of efficiency and quality.

Aricent Solution

Assuming the complete ownership of the entire solution, Aricent designed, developed, and integrated different software components of the Ethernet Edge Aggregation node. Additionally, we established a seamless working relationship with two Merchant Silicon companies (Dune Networks and Xelerated) who brought in cutting edge silicon and software drivers. We also provided test frameworks to speed development cycle and improve product quality.

With a deep understanding of the Ethernet switching control and management platform; unmatched expertise in integrating software; and a comprehensive understanding of the Ethernet switching silicon and packet processing, we interacted closely with the end customer (the Service Provider) to understand product requirements and features and developed a compelling solution.

Results

The customer was able to reduce its development cost by 85% as compared to in-house development. Additionally, it was able to reduce management overheads as Aricent assumed the complete ownership of the entire solution, including managing the integration of multiple software components from various third party vendors.

With its highly customizable product and the right mix of engineering resources, Aricent helped the customer to quickly respond to the rapidly evolving requirements, while meeting its ‘first mover’ objective.