Networks are changing rapidly, whether it’s a large data centre or a network wiring closet. Today’s networks are nothing like what they used to be in the past, and a lot of that has to do with network disaggregation. This brings us to a fundamental question…
What is network disaggregation?
Let’s take the traditional network device, such as a multilayer switch.
If we break this conventional network device that most likely comes from one of the prominent networking vendors into its distinct pieces, you have network disaggregation. In this case, the first step of network disaggregation is when you can purchase the networking hardware from a separate manufacturer out on the open market, where you have various choices. This is just like a white box server that you can purchase to run in your data centre from various manufacturers instead of the prominent server vendors.
Another essential part of network disaggregation is disintegrating the software aspect. Traditionally, you had to purchase your network operating system from the same vendor as your network hardware because the two were integrated and married together. But with network disaggregation, you have a wide variety of software choices as well.
In a nutshell, network disaggregation can be better-termed network hardware and software disaggregation.
So why are companies so interested in network disaggregation?
Well, for starters, companies get to freely choose their network hardware and software to fit their needs. This offers a very high level of customisation to organisations allowing them to scale freely. With the hurdle of buying the entire network solution from the same vendor out of the picture, industries can now assemble a customised network designed to reduce cost while improving the overall performance. Since the network system can now work with products from various vendors, companies do not have to compromise on any front due to lack of product availability.
In summary, network disaggregation provides flexibility, choice, higher performance, higher availability, improved scalability, and cost savings to Industries that are innovating with it.
Augmenting the disaggregated network with the power of IO
IO by HFCL has already established itself as one of the major suppliers in the Indian Wi-Fi space in just over a year. We were also quick to realise the true potential of network disaggregation in its early stages. Embracing the Telecom Infra Project’s (TIP) OpenWiFi initiative, IO has already deployed its OpenWifi compliant Access Points in one of the most ambitious large-scale open public hotspot projects in the history of India, the PM-WANI project. This project envisions providing speedy internet access to all parts of the country, no matter how remote they are. The critical factor in cutting down the cost of deployment for IO here has been the disaggregation of the software component of Wi-Fi technology. Adopting open-source software not only cuts the software operating cost down to zero; it also encourages more players to be a part of the open-source community and make it more robust and sustainable. IO has even greater plans for the future as global deployment of our products is more than just a vision after being involved in a project of PM-WANI’s pedigree.
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