Why telco operators are hesitant about network disaggregation
In our last blog on why network disaggregation matters, we discussed how the telecoms industry continues to cling to its soon-to-be outdated monolithic network system architectures. Modern society is evolving at a break-neck pace, and it’s only going to put more pressure on networks that have already reached their limits.
In short, it’s time to evolve. Network disaggregation is the best way forward, but operators are hesitant to cross the bridge and enter the promised land.
The question is why.
What is network disaggregation?
Essentially, network disaggregation dismantles the traditional, vertically integrated network model. It decouples software and hardware components, letting telcos choose best-of-breed solutions from various vendors which they can then build into an optimised, high-performing network.
Another benefit is that it breaks vendor lock-in, creating a more competitive and open ecosystem.
Operators are holding back
Change can be painful. Although disaggregation represents the future with its incredible potential, operators have had their systems and processes in place for over 20 years.
That’s a difficult habit to break.
As a result, many – if not most – operators recognise the potential of network disaggregation but choose instead to continue investing in the system that has ‘always worked’. They’re choosing to wait and see.
But doing nothing is also a choice that comes with its own risks.
Why hesitating is dangerous
Yes, change is difficult sometimes. Especially when the change is to move from a set, supplier-dominated system that has been stable for 30+ years into an open world where operators have abundant choices. But there’s a reason we’re the dominant species on the planet, and it’s not because we’ve refused to change. Quite the opposite.
Adapting to a changing world is our primary strength. And it’s sometimes necessary to sacrifice short-term growth for long-term gain; we need to invest in the future because it doesn’t arrive otherwise. That’s what we stand to lose.
The future.
We’re standing at the foot of a mountain called network disaggregation. And it’s time to start climbing, whether you like it or not.
The view from the summit
Don’t just take our word for it. FONEX, a trusted advisor to operators and service providers for more than 35 years, understands today’s network challenges and works with clients to optimize their infrastructure, reduce costs, and improve service delivery. "Open Networking has been a disruptive advantage for our clients, delivering greater performance and efficiency in their networks. Successfully implementing this approach relies on strong partnerships with vendors like RtBrick, who share our commitment to disaggregated networks. We are excited to fully support operators interested in exploring how the open networking model can transform their networks and accelerate their progress."
– David Boisseleau, Director of Product Management at FONEX.
Conclusion
It’s time to evolve. If you’d like a closer look at the transformative power of network disaggregation and see which companies are leading the charge, check out our industry map of the current vendor landscape – and our Network Disaggregation Manifesto.
The manifesto is a comprehensive guide outlining the principles of network disaggregation, why we need it, its benefits for the telecommunications industry, and last but not least, RtBrick's vision for the future of networking.