Metaswitch Networks in the NFV ecosystem: Bringing NFV to the IMS core.
A conversation with Martin Taylor, CTO, Metaswitch Networks
At Metaswitch, virtualization is part of a natural evolution, because from the beginning the company has exclusively developed software-based solutions that do not require proprietary hardware. Metaswitch has been an early mover in the NFV and SDN space: while it still supports ATCA hardware platforms, the company is pushing for a fast transition to x86 platforms, with all its products capable of running in a virtualized environment by the end of 2014.
Metaswitch’s focus is on SIP-based VoIP solutions and IMS technology that enable service providers to support legacy voice services in next-generation networks and to develop a new generation of rich voice services, which may or may not use VoLTE, at least initially. In addition to Perimeta Session Border Controller, Metaswitch has launched the Project Clearwater and the Project Calico to support the growth of the open source community working towards virtualization.
Trying to build a massively scalable, virtualized SIP-based call control, “we came up with something that was radically different from traditional telco software, something that takes advantage of the cloud and open source software. We ended up with something that is not only massively scalable, but also very cost effective to operate. We’re bringing the economics of an OTT-style service operation into a telco world, but implementing all of the telco standards around IMS”, explains Martin.
In our conversation with Martin, we talk in more detail about the adoption of IMS virtualization and the expanding cost and performance benefits that operators can expect as the scope and depth of virtualization grow.
This conversation will be included in the Senza Fili report “The emergence of the NFV ecosystem: Laying the foundation for a new way to run mobile networks” that will be published on October 6, 2014. If you would like to receive a complimentary copy of the report, please click here and you will be the first to receive the report when it is finalized.
