• Telefónica is working with ADVA to deploy a Disaggregated Cell Site Gateway solution (DCSG) as part of Telefónica transformed FUSION IP network architecture

• Designed within Telecom Infra Project (TIP) DCSG project, the solution uses open, standard-based and disaggregated network components bringing better flexibility and scalability and accelerating the pace of innovation

Madrid/Sao Paulo, Madrid Telefonica and ADVA announced today that Telefónica Vivo is deploying a Disaggregated Cell Site Gateway (DCSG) solution as part of its latest nationwide IP network deployment.

Running on whiteboxes designed under the DCSG specification, the solution provides feature-rich disaggregated cell site gateway (DCSG) functionality implemented by ADVA’s Ensemble Activator network operating system (NOS).

The deployment of this solution, which has been selected in competition and alongside other solutions from the established ecosystem, reinforces Telefonica strategy for open and disaggregated networks, and represents a clear indicator of the maturity of DCSG solutions, and its technical and economic feasibility.

DCSG will enable Brazil’s leading mobile network operator (MNO) to cost-effectively roll out nationwide 5G mobile services at scale. It will give Telefónica Vivo complete freedom to build vendor-neutral disaggregated 5G connectivity networks using best-in-class components.

Designed within TIP DCSG project, the solution uses open, standard-based, disaggregated network components able to mix-and-match in different combinations that permit overall deployment and operational efficiencies and a stronger and more diverse supply chain. Also, as an integral part of is specification, DCSG incorporates Software-Defined Networking (SDN) technologies for network management automation, fully aligned with MUST subgroup specification in TIP to enable a smooth integration with BSS/OSS operator maps, and an increase network automation.

“The new DCSG solution will deliver the agility of software-based feature development along with the performance and economics of bare-metal switches.” said Atila Araujo Branco – Technology and Planning Director, Telefónica Vivo. “This deployment gives us an open, agile and efficient mobile ecosystem fit for next-generation services and ready to grow in the future. The disaggregated, vendor-neutral model will empower us to choose software and hardware without constraints as we look to meet the capacity, latency and reliability demands of 5G and beyond.”

“We’ve been working closely with our partners within the Telecom Infra Project to develop the DSSG solution, in a relationship based on open collaboration and mutual understanding. That collaboration becomes a reality today in the award of the DCSG solution as part of our transformed FUSION IP network architecture,” said Cayetano Carbajo - Core, Transport and Network Platforms Director, Telefónica. “Now we’re working side-by-side with ADVA to bring the benefits of openness and disaggregation to our customers in Brazil. This new network brings better flexibility and scalability while also enabling us to freely select components and accelerate the pace of innovation.”

“The first commercial deployment of our Ensemble Activator for nationwide 5G connectivity is a landmark moment for interoperable, disaggregated and virtualized radio access networks. By utilizing our Ensemble Activator, Telefónica Vivo is leading the way towards an industry fueled by open innovation and multi-vendor collaboration,” commented Christoph Glingener, CTO, ADVA. “Our open carrier-grade NOS is ideal for operating large, geographically dispersed networks. It provides the cost-efficiency of bare-metal switches and brings flexibility to transport infrastructure. What’s more, its open control interfaces and telemetry streaming are a major step towards automated operations and eventually autonomous networking.”