At the end of 2012, 13 major telecom operators (including China Mobile, Deutsche Telekom and Telefonica) established a Network Functions Virtualization (NFV) committee to focus on smoothly evolving traditional network architecture toward more resilient, on-demand and orchestrated network architectures. A Cloud EPC solution with a three-pronged approach to redefining network infrastructure, virtualization and applications is crucial for realizing such architectures.

This approach is one that falls in line with a SoftMobile solution of software-defined network architectures for on-demand and orchestrated mobile broadband.

Network Virtualization

Cloud EPC provides operators with a path toward a more resilient, intelligent and scalable Packet Core architecture while fully supporting compatibility with existing SingleEPC infrastructure. The key concept behind Cloud EPC is efficiently allocating implementation of software applications on top of virtualized network hardware resources.

Cloud EPC redefines telecom network topology for more centralized network control and network resource coordination via virtualization technologies. The solution’s redesigned packet core architecture allows for flexible distribution of infrastructure resources to eliminate equipment bottlenecks and enable rapid implementation of innovative services.

Cloud-Ready Architectures

Cloud EPC also supports delivery of innovative services on top of a virtualized FusionSphere® Cloud OS built to dynamically adjust physical infrastructure resources according to dynamic service demands for stronger and more elastic networks. Distributed simultaneously running network resources are freed from their geographic limitations to truly ensure a consistently reliable user experience in the event of local resource strain or failure.

And in addition to rapidly implementing innovative services and opening up network capabilities for third party access, Cloud EPC helps operators effectively consolidate multiple physical network infrastructures into one system, dramatically reducing network OPEX by facilitating a truly centralized, comprehensive and agile network O&M.

Business Openness

Every node on an open Cloud EPC network architecture utilizes software plug-ins that report detailed network information to open network controllers. Network capabilities are thusly made available to third parties, fostering the formation of a mobile ecosystem beyond merely providing users access to software platforms. Operators are not only able to expand their existing horizontal market business, but are empowered to enter and capitalize on previously untapped vertical markets.

Cloud EPC helps operators realize a future for MBB networks whereby wireless network services are simple, convenient and personalized for the commoditization of on-demand subscriptions. The solution’s ultimate goal is to provide wireless network services that are always available, always reliable and always connected.