Converged Network Design
Converged Voice & Data MPLS Networks
Alliant has been building converged network designs for its clients
ever since AT&T and other telecom carriers introduced MPLS-based
network services in 1999. Since then many enterprises have migrated
from traditional Frame Relay networks to converged MPLS networks - and
smaller organizations are now taking advantage of its many benefits.
Some of the drivers in the migration to MPLS networks include:
- MPLS provides the privacy and security of Layer 2 type networks
(ex: Frame Relay) over public IP connections, allowing diverse
access methods and simpler connectivity to external business
partners.
- The QoS (Quality of Service) options of MPLS provide a way for
voice, data and video traffic to share the same bandwidth while
ensuring that the IP packets carrying latency-sensitive applications
are given higher priority across the network.
- MPLS also allows for any-to-any connectivity, via its label
switching, so that a firm does not have to build physical links between
each of its sites. Each location is fitted with a single IP
connection to reach all other sites, saving on telecom circuit
costs.
- Converged networks allow for centralized voice services across
the enterprise, since voice calls can now be delivered without
quality degradation. Many companies are migrating to MPLS-networks
expressly for the purpose of retiring TDM-based PBXs and moving to
server-based IP PBXs such as Cisco's CallManager® platform.
Reduced Operational Costs
The most significant benefit of a converged network is cost
savings. From reduced complexity, to merging the IT and voice services
departments, to consolidated access circuits at each site, converged
networks just make sense to drive costs out of the business. AT&T
estimates that converged MPLS networks can result in 20-30% cost
savings in WAN and PSTN service spend.
Network Resiliency
A converged network may be easier to manage, but running a single
network for your critical applications can put your business processes
at risk if disaster recovery planning is overlooked. With voice mail
and email on the same backbone, clients and employees will know
immediately if the network is under strain or connectivity is
disrupted. Alliant engineers thoroughly prepare for multiple
contingencies in their converged network designs.
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