Redback Networks, an Ericsson company (NASDAQ:ERIC) that develops IP–based routers and switches for 75+ percent of the world´s largest telephone carriers, today introduced "in–service software upgrade" (ISSU) capabilities for Redback´s entire family of IP–based routers and switches.
The new software feature allows carriers to upgrade the operating system for Redback routers and switches without taking them out of service. The PC world equivalent would be upgrading to a new version of Windows without shutting down PC or Web applications. Introducing ISSU separates Redback–Ericsson from other router companies. It establishes Redback´s products as the first and only family of routers and switches on the market that can be upgraded in real–time with no disruption in network operations and subscriber services.
"In–service software upgrades are a very savvy move for Redback because it extends their platform into Layer 2 Access/Aggregation," states Ray Mota, chief research officer at Synergy Research Group, Inc. "Redback has invested more than $400 million dollars in the development of its modular operating system network software, which delivers market–first features such as ISSU, hitless ASIC updates, and session resiliency. By maintaining subscriber and session connectivity during upgrades, Redback delivers a service that can give their customers a competitive advantage."
"If router companies can´t deliver video like voice reliability, they won´t play in the next round of network upgrades," said Steve Murray, VP of product management at Redback Networks. "The ability to deliver high–quality video services is shaping up to be the new benchmark for multi–service broadband networks. SmartEdge routers allow carriers to deliver any combination of broadband, phone and TV service, tested at 99.999 percent reliability or higher."
ISSU is the latest feature in the SmartEdge operating system, and is available for installation now. It is uniformly supported on all SmartEdge platforms (400, 800, 1200), as well as Redback´s new SM series of smart Ethernet switches. The technology innovation behind the Redback´s IP platform is at the center of Ericsson efforts to deliver full service broadband.
SmartEdge routers manage up to 107 million DSL subscribers worldwide. There are approximately 210 million DSL subscribers today. Redback routers are deployed in several large networks where many router uptimes have exceeded 800 days. ISSU extends Redback´s focus on reliability and system availability, giving carriers the same performance as class–five circuit switches "“ the gold standard of network reliability.
Redback will be demonstrating these capabilities at NXTcomm in booth #SU–7410 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, June 16–19.
About Redback Networks
An Ericsson company since January 2007 (NASDAQ:ERIC), Redback Networks has sold 107+ million broadband subscriber licenses to 75 percent of the top 20 telephone carriers worldwide. Redback delivers next generation broadband services such as VoIP, IPTV, on–demand video, and online gaming. Redback Networks has more than 500 carrier customers worldwide and is based in San Jose, CA. For more information, visit Redback Networks at www.redback.com.
About Ericsson
Ericsson is the world´s leading provider of technology and services to telecom operators. The market leader in 2G and 3G mobile technologies, Ericsson supplies communications services and manages networks that serve more than 185 million subscribers. The company´s portfolio comprises mobile and fixed network infrastructure, and broadband and multimedia solutions for operators, enterprises and developers. The Sony Ericsson joint venture provides consumers with feature–rich personal mobile devices.
Ericsson is advancing its vision of "˜communication for all´ through innovation, technology, and sustainable business solutions. Working in 175 countries, more than 70,000 employees generated revenue of USD 27.9 billion (SEK 188 billion) in 2007. Founded in 1876 and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, Ericsson is listed on the Stockholm, London and NASDAQ stock exchanges. For more information, visit www.ericsson.com or www.ericsson.mobi. Read more at http://www.ericsson.com.
