The introduction of virtualised network functions (VNFs) on common IT-based infrastructures in large-scale communications networks is proving to be a network operations game changer.
Once restricted by proprietary network equipment, a new PlanScape report from International Data Corporation (IDC) claims that virtualisation is driving evolution from a traditional business operations approach to an architecture designed for what customers want to buy.
In outlining the IT operations architecture transition to virtualised networks and the opportunities it represents, IDC findings claim that the evolution is “well under way” and will support business goals more effectively.
“The business experience and benefits derived from virtualised server infrastructure are key to this network transition,” says Elisabeth Rainge, Vice President, Communications Service Provider Operations.
“Networking functions require a complex set of algorithms for sub-millisecond decisions and response times.
“However, the engine for making many of those decisions and executing them on the network is shifting from proprietary network processor hardware to the compute platform that IT operations teams have been working on for many years.”
