SCTE Cable-Tec Expo 2023 Insights: The Era of Network Convergence

As the telecom landscape continues to evolve, the boundaries between different types of networks blur. One of the most exciting developments in this arena is the convergence of wireline and wireless networks. But what does this mean for consumers, service providers, and the industry?

That was a big topic of discussion at SCTE Cable-Tec Expo 2023 – both in casual conversations on the floor and, particularly, in the session, "Converging the Cable and Mobile Networks," where Incognito was pleased to be represented on the panel by our product and innovation manager, Jhuli Takahara.

Understanding Network Convergence

Network convergence refers to the integration of wireline systems (like our home broadband) and wireless systems (like our mobile networks) to form a super-highway where both networks use the same path, working harmoniously together.

The converged network offers many promising possibilities for service providers and their customers.

Service providers can benefit from:

• Simplified management and lower costs: One integrated network can be more cost-effective and simpler to maintain and run.
• Steady, reliable connectivity: End-to-end closed-loop assurance across various technologies and applications enables providers to guarantee service continuity.
• Efficiency: Combined infrastructure can allow providers to deliver services faster and more reliably.
• Optimized efficiency: Collaboration working between multiple teams and having a single pane of glass view of the network.

While customers enjoy:

• Unified communication platforms: Seamlessly switch between devices without losing connection.
• Enhanced streaming: Enjoy content on the move without pesky buffering or drops.
• Integrated gaming platforms: Play games across devices, from TV to mobile, without missing a beat.

Challenges of Network Convergence

As with any technology or advance, the benefits don't come for free. There are always challenges to overcome, including:

• Initial costs: Setting up an "uber" network can be expensive at first.
• Complexity: Integrating different technologies can lead to initial teething issues requiring expertise to resolve.
• Security concerns: With more services on a single network, ensuring robust security becomes crucial.
• Standards: Will the industry agree on a cross-platform control standard? With multiple legacy systems and emerging technologies, achieving consensus on a universal control standard is no small feat.
• Scaling: As networks grow in complexity and size, provisioning and activating services across them becomes increasingly intricate.

DOCSIS and the Converged Network

Delivering DOCSIS over this converged infrastructure is an attractive prospect, especially to those already invested in the standard. It can seem faster, simpler, and cost-effective to leverage existing infrastructure – a way of modernizing without a complete network overhaul. However, balancing the demands of mobile, video, DOCSIS, and other services on one shared network poses its own set of challenges.

Depending on the version of DOCSIS in question, there may be physical infrastructure, security, or other limitations to consider, and migrating to newer DOCSIS standards can be complex and may require equipment upgrades.

The Magic of OSS in Network Convergence

One compelling solution to the intricate process of network convergence is harnessing the power of the operations support systems (OSS) layer. By offering unified management, adaptable integration, and proactive problem-solving, having a holistic OSS approach allows providers to manage the flow of network data, ensure different services work together seamlessly, and provide continuous service by spotting issues before they affect users.

Benefits include:

• Bird's eye view: It provides an overarching perspective, ensuring no service is left in the dark and driving intelligence on the customer experience. Monitoring quality of service and traffic (packet loss) metrics will be key in a converged world.
• Eliminating silos: Using control loops to monitor latency and performance independent of access layers. Routine tasks are automatically managed, allowing for a smoother user experience and less manual intervention.
• Enhanced security: In a converged environment, security is paramount. A holistic OSS approach provides robust tools to ensure data integrity and safety.

Leading Use Cases for Network Convergence