Network disaggregation: reshaping CSPs’ IP networks for 5G, cloud and edge

Network disaggregation (that is, the decoupling of network hardware and software) was first embraced by hyper-scalers that implemented large-scale disaggregated and software-defined data centres and wide-area networks to drive service innovation and market differentiation. Communications service providers (CSPs) are starting to apply a similar approach to their IP core, transport and access networks by using an emerging ecosystem of hardware (white-box and merchant silicon), network operating system (NOS) software and professional services solutions.

This report provides:

• an overview of network disaggregation in CSPs' IP core, transport and access networks and the emerging vendor ecosystem
• an analysis of the drivers, challenges and operational implications of network disaggregation
• an overview of network disaggregation use cases (cell site gateway, BNG, aggregation, IP core and edge) and deployment models (vertical, horizontal, distributed disaggregated chassis (DDC))
• a discussion of the operational requirements for network disaggregation lifecycle management
• recommendations for CSPs on how to take full advantage of network disaggregation.

Companies mentioned in this report