Juniper Enhances its T-1600 for Virtualized Super-Nodes

Juniper Networks introduced a number of enhancements for its T1600 core router, including the ability to integrate up to 16 routers into a 25 Tbps multi-chassis single node while adding physical virtualization capabilities.


The TX Matrix Plus, which is slated for arrival in Q3 2009, is a multi-chassis core routing system that works with the Juniper Control System (JCS) 1200 to allow the virtualization of routing systems, networks and services. The architecture enables service providers to create "super-nodes" of up to 25 Tbps. This enables up to 256 40GbE ports or 1,024 GbE ports in a single routing node.


This multi-chassis router can be managed as a single, unified router, or combined with the JCS 1200 to enable the secure virtualization of core routers -- which creates efficiencies by consolidating networks, services and functionality. Juniper core routers can be partitioned -- on a per slot basis -- into multiple virtual routers, each of which might represent services or network element types, and which can share resources such as interconnecting links and uplinks. For instance, a carrier with separate wireless, broadband and business networks could converge its networks onto a single routing platform where the services are physically separated by slot. The "super-node" network architecture could also consolidate multiple central offices or POPs into a single facility.


Juniper noted that virtualization has seen rapid adoption in the data center and elsewhere because of its ability to increase efficiency and reduce costs by sharing and consolidating resources. With the TX Matrix Plus and JCS 1200, Juniper is addressing these challenges by enabling the hardware virtualization of highly scalable, adaptable core routers.


Juniper also announced several other capabilities for the T1600. The platform will offer 100 Gigabits of capacity per slot, enabling the T1600 to support ultra-high capacity links necessitated by virtualized core routers. Additionally, Juniper is continuing to expand on its optical integration capabilities with new integrated G.709 optical transport network (OTN) interfaces and GMPLS features. These enhanced integrated optical capabilities further eliminate the need for standalone optical transponders, leading to a significant reduction in space and power. The OTN interfaces will be available in the current quarter.

"Virtualization is the de facto operational model for data centers, because the cost and operational advantages it provides are indisputable," said Opher Kahane, senior vice president and general manager, High-End Systems Business Unit, Juniper Networks. "The TX Matrix Plus brings these same advantages of virtualization to core networks in the industry's most flexible multi-chassis routing system.:


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