Each cable service provider can develop its own unique business solution by selecting the best equipment, management and provisioning software, and application software to suit its particular needs. Consumers won t put up with poor service so it is essential to seek out partners and systems with proven reliability. A quality service will offer maximum performance through a scalable system, high reliability with minimal service outages, and enhanced security using certificate-based encryption. Scalability and flexibility. Scalability allows the same broadband infrastructure to handle both regular traffic and the high volumes of data that travel across a network at peak service times and enables the cable operator to add increasing numbers of users without adding an expensive new framework or significantly increasing infrastructure.
Redundancy is essential both in network equipment and power supplies.
Don t get left behind Voice services can bring immediate revenue enhancements that help drive the cable operator s transition to IP-based networks. They also offer a range of business opportunities that can give cable operators a competitive edge in the fast-paced telecommunications industry. Cable operators can and should begin implementing telephony over a unified IP architecture today. While the world moves to IP, those who don t may find themselves being left behind. Mark Bakies is manager of product marketing for IP Communications Solutions, Cisco Systems.