Aura Network Solutions in more detail
Running on the Akamai network, the Managed CDN can decrease carriers’ time-to-market because it can be built, configured, and implemented within a few months, according to Akamai. The LCDN option allows operators to build and manage their own CDN capacity inside their networks. It can be deployed on standalone servers or integrated with third-party network elements. These CDNs can then interoperate with Akamai’s network to extend their reach.
After announcing their intention to work together at last year’s Mobile World Congress, Ericsson became Akamai’s first distribution partner to embed Akamai technology in its equipment. The Smart Cloud Accelerator is designed to enable wireline and wireless operators’ broadband networks to connect with Akamai’s Intelligent Platform, which can deliver global reach and connectivity. Akamai said its technology will also be embedded as an option in Ericsson’s next-generation IP service delivery platform, the Smart Services Router (SSR), and the two companies are working to develop an Akamai blade.
Smaller operators will be most receptive
Aura Networks Solutions is a strong proposition that will attract market interest. The different options provide choice based on the telco’s interest and ability to develop its own solution, while the partnership with Ericsson increases Akamai’s access to new customers.
However, for some this may have come too late. Larger carriers (e.g. AT&T, BT, DT, Level 3, TSIC, and Verizon) have already entered the CDN market on a wholesale and retail basis. Therefore Akamai will most likely gain the bulk of its business from regional and smaller network operators that have not yet developed a content delivery service. Even carriers that have started to deploy CDNs will be intrigued by Akamai’s technology and approach.
Adrian Drury is practice leader for consumer impact IT at Ovum, while Paris Burstyn is a senior analyst for wholesale telecoms. For more information, visit www.ovum.com/