Cisco announced its plans to execute on a radio access network (RAN) automation strategy using the Cisco SON (self-organizing network) platform for VodafoneZiggo.
VodafoneZiggo is now deploying the new Cisco SONFlex Suite, building on its existing deployment of Cisco SON applications across its network to manage all RAN technologies including 2G, 3G, long-term evolution (LTE, or 4G) and ultimately 5G.
The move marks a new milestone in VodafoneZiggo’s automation strategy, as it shifts from traditional network-focused optimization solutions to an approach of customer-centric SON-based automation solutions. Using SONFlex APIs and infrastructure, it can take advantage of many more external data sources, and take its RAN automation to the next level to maximize network assets, decrease costs per bit and improve the overall customer experience with superior voice quality.
Cisco SONFlex Suite is enabling VodafoneZiggo to develop and deploy its own SON applications, independent from the core Cisco SON platform to improve operational practices and launch new services faster.
Matthias Sauder, Director, Mobile Networks, VodafoneZiggo
With Cisco SONFlex, we are now in a position to manage increasing network complexity with 5G on the horizon, improve operational efficiency, and gain greater autonomy to develop a unique automation strategy.
Alon Peleg, GM, Cisco SON
VodafoneZiggo is pioneering RAN automation as the first European service provider to simplify its network with Cisco SONFlex. Importantly, it is shifting from an ‘off-the-shelf-product’ approach and gaining full creativity and autonomy to develop its own customized apps for faster time to market.
