Riverstone Unveils New Boxes

SANTA CLARA, Calif. -- Riverstone Networks (RSTN.PK) today introduced a new hardware module, upgraded MPLS routers and a software release all aimed at helping service providers to deploy multiple services over a common Ethernet infrastructure. The three new products -- the RS 1100, 3100 and 3200 routers, the Advanced Services Module (ASM) and RapidOS software release 9.4 - are Riverstone's latest contribution toward the industry's conversion toward MPLS/VPLS-based Ethernet networks.

Small routers promote MPLS migration

The RS 1100, 3100 and 3200 access router platforms build upon Riverstone's popular RS 1000 and 3000 as the industry's smallest and most cost-effective VPLS platforms. The new platforms are endowed with additional intelligence to deliver granular Quality of Service (QoS) with rate limiting and shaping. Supporting a wide variety of interfaces including ATM, Packet over SONET/SDH and TDM, the RS 1100, 3100 and 3200 allow for a smooth migration from existing networks to advanced Ethernet services based on MPLS/VPLS. The RS 1100 and 3100 are targeted at Ethernet-over-copper deployments with standard 10/100BaseT interfaces, while the RS 3200 is targeted at Ethernet-over-fiber deployments with SFP interfaces for 100BaseFX or 100BaseBX.

ASM facilitates sophisticated service level agreements

The ASM for the RS line of routers provides precise bandwidth control, allowing Ethernet to emulate the service capabilities of Frame Relay and ATM. The ASM's traffic shaping and advanced MPLS capabilities allow service providers to offer their customers services like E-Line and E-LAN (defined by the Metro Ethernet Forum) as well as a choice in how much service they want to pay for. Using the new RapidOS 9.4 software, the ASM also lets service providers extend tailored service bundles such as Voice-over-IP (VoIP), Internet Access and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to their customers. The bandwidth associated with both the bundle and the individual services within it can be guaranteed up front, and, what's more, unused bandwidth from one service can be distributed to the rest. The ASM is available for the 1000, 3000 and 8000 series of RS routers.

Software simplifies Operations, Administration and Maintenance (OAM)

RapidOS 9.4 draws on Riverstone's experience with Ethernet and MPLS deployments around the world to deliver more revenue-generating services for service providers, greater security, and operational advantages for those running the network.

RapidOS 9.4 is being evaluated by carriers worldwide including Merit Communications, an international provider of next generation Internet and Telecommunications services operating in the U.S. and Caribbean.

New OAM features include MPLS OAM and SNMP support for Ethernet OAM.

Riverstone Networks Inc.