A new architectural framework
SK Telecom Co., South Korea’s largest wireless telecommunications operator, announced the commercialization of a new network functions virtualization management and orchestration (NFV MANO) platform known as T-MANO to advance the deployment of virtualized network tools and software.
The main idea behind NFV is to provide network services on software rather than proprietary hardware. NFV is re-shaping the telecom industry, but the shift lacks proper oversight. As a result, the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) defined MANO as the architectural framework to oversee the uptick of network functions on virtual devices.
T-MANO is SK Telecom’s architectural framework for managing virtualized network functions and other software. T-MANO was suited to fit SK Telecom’s environment using specifications set by the ETSI Industry Specification Group (ISG NFV).
Benefits of T-MANO
Before T-MANO was developed, SK Telecom had to create and operate a distinct NFV management platform for every network equipment provider. This was because each provider had NFV equipment based on different specifications.
T-MANO liberates SK Telecom from having to develop and operate different NFV management platforms for various providers. The platform enables SK Telecom to utilize its virtualized network equipment by managing service quality and data traffic. In addition, since the entire system can be upgraded, less time is needed to set up new equipment to provide additional services.
Furthermore, SK Telecom believes T-MANO will widen the telecommunications infrastructure using application program interfaces (APIs), allowing anyone to use it to create virtualized network equipment or software.
SK Telecom will first apply T-MANO to its virtualized VoLTE (HD Voice) routers. It will then broaden its application to encompass virtualized LTE Evolved Packet Core (EPC) and other equipment like MMS Servers. SK Telecom expects virtualized EPC will take up about 80% of newly deployed EPC this year. From 2019 and onward, it will solely deploy virtualized EPC.
Preparing for 5G with NFV
SK Telecom has been at the forefronts of NFV technologies. In 2015, the company commercialized an international standard-based NFV system orchestrator. In 2016, the telecom operator administered NFV technologies to its base station equipment.
“With the commercialization of T-MANO, SK Telecom secures the basis for accelerating the application of NFV technologies to provide better services for customers,” said Choi Seung-won, senior vice president and head of infrastructure strategy office, in a press release.
“We will continue to develop NFV technologies and accumulate operational knowhow for virtualized networks to thoroughly prepare for the upcoming era of 5G.”
