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Extreme Scalability
Next-generation switches are purpose-built to scale to meet the needs of any subscriber base (see Figure 4). These systems are designed to have a small start-up cost and a linear incremental cost. This architecture allows carriers to make better use of their capital by purchasing only the capacity that their network requires; as carriers need additional capacity, additional cards can be inserted.
Figure 4. Scalability of Next-Generation Switches
Service Creation Environment
To compete and win in a competitive environment, carriers must offer revenue-generating enhanced services ahead of the competition. Another benefit of next-generation switches is their rich SCE. Typically a graphical user interface, these SCEs allow carriers to develop, deploy and—most importantly—pay only for the services that their customers require (see Figure 5). In an era of next-generation switches, carriers will no longer need to wait for a vendor's next generic release of feature software. Instead, the carriers or third-party developers can quickly and cost-effectively develop their own applications. Doing so will provide yet another competitive advantage. The carrier will own its new applications, thereby limiting a competitor's ability to offer the same service.
Figure 5. Service Creation Environment
Remote Management and Diagnostics
Next-generation switches allow carriers to connect a distributed network of intelligent switches together and manage them as a single virtual switch. These platforms come equipped with revolutionary graphical user interface software modules that allow carriers to manage and provision their network remotely. Next-generation switches give carriers the ability to gain access to a specific resource on a specific card via a host computer connected to the next-generation network. This capability greatly reduces a network operator's costs by eliminating expensive truck rolls and costly service calls (see Figure 6).
Figure 6. Graphical User Interface Software Module
Highest Availability
Next-generation switches achieve zero downtime through hot-swappable, fault-tolerant software. These platforms never have to go into simplex mode or be brought down for software upgrades; software can be both uploaded and activated while the switch is in service. Even calls in progress are seamlessly upgraded to the new software. With next-generation switches, carriers can introduce new features and services in real-time, rather than wait until network traffic is minimal.
