ADVA Optical Networking has launched the Ensemble SmartWAN, a an open and vendor-neutral platform that enables the deployment and management of virtualized software-defined WAN (SD-WAN) and virtual network functions (VNFs) solutions. Ensemble SmartWAN is supported by a number of key partners, including Silver Peak and Versa Networks.
It uses NFV management and orchestration principles to ensure that service providers can integrate virtual SD-WANs into larger service offerings. Ensemble SmartWAN also supports overlay and underlay networks. Ensemble SmartWAN achieves this by interfacing directly with MPLS VPNs without requiring a CE router. What’s more, Ensemble SmartWAN can also provide the MPLS peering and tunnels of the CE router, eliminating the need for the router altogether.
ADVA said that Ensemble SmartWAN addresses a key gap in the marketplace. Current SD-WAN solutions enable enterprises to develop virtual private networks (VPNs) at more cost-effective price points than operator-managed MPLS VPNs. However, they present enterprises with significant operational issues as the IT department is suddenly responsible for all network management.
From a service provider’s perspective, today’s SD-WAN solutions are a potential threat to their managed VPN revenue streams. Ensemble SmartWAN addresses the concerns of each party. With this technology, service providers can offer managed SD-WAN solutions in an automated and virtualized manner while retaining the ability to efficiently deploy additional value-added services on top of their base SD-WAN offerings. This approach enables enterprises to take advantage of the benefits of these virtualized, feature-rich services at a much lower cost.
Prayson Pate, CTO, Ensemble Division, ADVA Optical Networking
Ensemble SmartWAN isn’t simply a piece of software; it’s a philosophy that embodies everything our team is about. It’s open; it’s neutral; it’s simple. Ultimately, it’s all about choice, ensuring our customers are not locked in to one technology.
