How much do you really know about network optimisation?

Kevin Challen Kevin Challen, Vice-President of Communications at Cyient

Network optimisation, and in particular self-optimising networks, has long been regarded as a pipe dream for large-scale networks, especially for the fixed line networks. Within mobile networks we have seen some levels of self-optimisation, but these have been mainly limited to the same technology, 4G, and do not address 2G or 3G.As a result, when it comes to looking at more integrated network optimisation, difficulties can arise. It has resulted in a siloed approach to network optimisation, which as we begin to see the re-integration of fixed and mobile network, does not provide adequate operations support. So we need to re-consider our approach to network optimisation to see how this so-called holy grail can actually be achieved.

Best practice for companies preparing an ‘optimisation’ strategy

In general, discussions of ‘best approaches’ to network optimisation often focus too heavily on specific network technologies. Given the current complexity of most networks however, companies would be far better off adopting a holistic approach, in which they analyse and optimise the network in as close to real-time as possible.

With this in mind, companies need to practise “optimisation with intent” – in other words, ensure optimisation platforms are enabled to make dynamic changes to the network, based on specific operational conditions. This removes the need for manual intervention from network operations centres, but does require the creation and implementation of far more sophisticated network management tools. These tools need to capture sophisticated data about the network to create a “whole” network model against which to optimise.

Consideration should also be given to the priority of the services that use the networks – especially as the merging of network assets from fixed and mobile platforms complicates the situation further.  This however has and will continue to raise issues with both the consumer and more importantly the regulator, with a number of service providers facing legal challenges to their network prioritisation strategies.

network cables

Technologies being deployed

Currently, there are a wide variety of optimisation tools being deployed, many of which are tailored to the specific network being monitored. These include copper, HFC, 2G, 3G, 4G and fibre.  Some organisations have or are deploying a single platform across their networks for optimisation, but many of these solutions are still siloed around network types.

Some of the options for architectures for optimisation have included technology level management coupled with an overarching optimisation tool, but this multi-level strategy, while offering some operational benefits, is no more than a short to medium term solution.

Optimisation and delivering sustainable capacity

Subscribers are constantly mobile, moving around the network and producing ever-evolving optimisation challenges, which need addressing. Even if this can’t be done immediately due to network complexity or the tools being deployed, the task of network optimisation can and undoubtedly will deliver value to the CSP in the long run. To this end, it’s critical that we both consider and plan for how the network’s overall topology will evolve to meet the current and future demands of our networks.

Recently, there has also been an increase in small cell deployments, which are being used to provide “in-fill” for both city and urban environments. These deployments are becoming increasingly vital for mobile operators in the face of increasingly costly “upgrades” and “uplifts” to their mobile networks, which often sit outside of the current network optimising environment.

One aspect which will be crucial is the use of the cloud, which in itself offers CSPs a mechanism though which they can optimise their own networks. The cloud helps to alleviate the demands being put on their infrastructure by transferring the network data to a hosted environment.

network

 

Other areas for CSPs to exploit

As networks continue to pursue network optimisation, many CSPs will start to consolidate their network management tools in conjunction with the introduction of other next generation technologies. Specifically, Software Defined Networks (SDN) will become more important, and if its early phase trend continues to be as successful as it has been thus far, it could bring about a radical change in approach to optimisation.

When implemented correctly, SDNs have the potential to provide the foundations of self-optimising networks, at least for some of the CSPs’ more critical services. Many CSP’s have integrated SDN into this lease line business with great success, validating the benefits to both operator and subscriber.

With the introduction of a flexible and technology agnostic optimisation platform, CSPs will then need to have significant data, in terms of network utilisation and trends, to support a viable SDN implementation.  To support this, we will also see an increased focus on network analytics to allow the CSP’s to perform intricate modelling of their network, which will help provide the flexibility and performance characteristics required by their consumers and business communities.

Telecom organisations face a substantial challenge in their pursuit of network optimisation. As new technologies continue to evolve, altering their infrastructure and placing further pressure on their existing inventory; networks must continue to adapt to keep up with the pace of change. Ultimately though, with the right approach and preparation, they will be equipped to carry out this work successfully.

By Kevin Challen, Vice-President of Communications at Cyient

RECENT ARTICLES

Connectbase expands baltic connectivity with Bitė partnership

Posted on: March 28, 2024

Connectbase has announced the addition of Bitė to its ecosystem. This partnership marks a step forward in enhancing connectivity options within the Baltic region, providing a link between local and

Read more

IOT Solutions World Congress 2024 connects semiconductor chips to industry

Posted on: March 27, 2024

Essential to manufacture computers, smartphones, cars, refrigerators or any electronic device, semiconductors are critical elements in the implementation of the Internet of Things. For this reason, IOT Solutions World Congress

Read more