Software-defined networking presents a number of exciting benefits for mobile carriers, particularly regarding network management. It seems that with each new trade show, the telecom industry gets a little bit closer to realizing the full potential of SDN as tech companies and telcos alike rush to demonstrate their latest wares and advancements.
Hewlett-Packard is just the latest example of a tech-based organization making headway on mobile applications for SDN solutions. The company unveiled its latest SDN-based offerings at the recent Interop Las Vegas event, according to NewsFactor. The overall aim of this technology is to make network management less of a headache for businesses as well as carriers.
"Our customers are telling us that their networks are primarily cost centers that are too complex to manage, while they are at the same time facing increasing end-user demand for a better mobile experience," said HP senior vice president Bethany Mayer, according to the source.
One of the products unveiled by HP at the event was its Location Aware SDN application, eWEEK reported. This service will allow organizations to identify the physical locations of wireless devices when used indoors. For instance, retailers could use the technology to locate shoppers and send them real-time deals and offers depending on which section of the store they are browsing.
That type of granular oversight regarding mobile use will benefit members of the telecom industry as well. Having precise details regarding the data usage activity of connected devices will enable carriers to better allocate their network resources, resulting in lower operating expenses as well as happier customers.
HP is also busy creating a roadmap to SDN maturity for organizations interested in the technology, according to eWEEK. This may prove extremely useful as SDN is still considered a relatively new enterprise-level investment, and potential adopters may not know where to begin. For telcos that wish to make the most of their networks and provide customers with highest-quality services possible, SDN presents a viable manner to maximize available assets.
