Dutch broadband operator Ziggo is upgrading thousands of sites across its network to DOCSIS 4.0, a technology designed to deliver faster and more reliable broadband. Aurora Networks says it is the first large-scale deployment of DOCSIS 4.0 in a live European network.
The deployment is intended to increase network capacity and reliability while providing a route towards multi-gigabit broadband services. It forms part of Liberty Global’s wider DOCSIS 4.0 strategy, with further deployments planned across its European operating companies.
“Being the first in Europe to deploy DOCSIS 4.0 in the Netherlands at a large scale, in a live network, is how we make sure they have the best network experience,” said Thomas Helbo, Chief Technology Officer at Ziggo. “This deployment is an important step toward our multi-gigabit-speeds network and demonstrates our commitment to investing in advanced technologies that will help us deliver faster, more reliable broadband services for years to come.”
Ziggo’s network is based on hybrid fibre-coaxial (HFC) infrastructure, with the DOCSIS 4.0 upgrade allowing the operator to increase capacity without replacing the underlying access network.
Aurora Networks, part of Vistance Networks, is supplying the technology. The deployment combines its D2182 optical node platform with an RD1710U2 unified Distributed Access Architecture module configured for Remote PHY (R-PHY), alongside its vCCAP EVO virtualised core platform and ServAssure NXT Domain Manager.
R-PHY moves DOCSIS physical-layer processing out of the traditional headend and closer to subscribers. This allows network operators to distribute processing across the access network while reducing dependence on centralised headend infrastructure.
Aurora said the architecture can also reduce space and power requirements by virtualising core network functions. Its management platform is intended to automate and simplify the operation of R-PHY and virtualised CCAP infrastructure.
The Ziggo deployment uses DOCSIS 4.0 Extended Spectrum DOCSIS (ESD). The RD1710U2 module can also be configured for Full Duplex DOCSIS (FDX), giving operators the option to use either DOCSIS 4.0 architecture as their networks evolve.
“By combining unified DOCSIS 4.0 nodes, DAA and virtualised core technology, we’re enabling operators to accelerate their path toward multi-gigabit speeds services while reducing power consumption, headend complexity and operational costs,” said Guy Sucharczuk, Senior Vice-President and President of Aurora Networks.
For Ziggo, the upgrade represents an evolution of its existing HFC infrastructure rather than a wholesale replacement. The operator expects the architecture to provide additional capacity and scalability as demand for broadband services increases.
The deployment also illustrates the continuing convergence of physical network infrastructure and software-defined network functions. By combining distributed access hardware with a virtualised core, cable operators can move more network processing towards the Edge while managing services through software.
Aurora said the Ziggo deployment provides a commercial example of its unified DOCSIS 4.0 architecture operating at scale in a live European network.
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