Verizon Advances Control Plane Strategy, 100G Metro Deployments

Verizon is making progress on two key initiatives that are transforming its global optical network: advanced control plane technology and the extension of 100G into its metro networks.

The integration of additional control plane technology allows electronic devices on its optical network to more easily communicate with each other, simplifying operations and allowing for near real-time provisioning of specified new circuits. Verizon has deployed the Ciena 5430 Reconfigurable Switching System, which features advanced Optical Transport Network aggregation and switching software. The control plane initiative enables end-to-end optical transport network functionality and global mesh architecture capabilities.

Verizon noted that it has been a pioneer in mesh network architecture, beginning deployments in 2006, which gives the company significant flexibility and precision in routing choices. This architecture creates additional paths to quickly and seamlessly reroute traffic in the event of multiple breaks or network disruptions.

The extension of 100G technology into its metro network worldwide, which follows earlier deployment of 100G in its long haul network, provide greater scalability while supporting higher access speeds. Verizon expects to implement this technology into major metro markets around the world during the first half of 2013.

"By combining our expanded control plane capabilities with extended 100G technology, Verizon is building the network of the future," said Ihab Tarazi, vice president of global IP and transport planning and technology for Verizon. "It’s no longer about miles and scope. It’s about leveraging strategies that further enable us to deliver http://www.verizon.com