Allied Telesis introduces Enterprise SDN Solution

Allied Telesis recently announced that it is releasing an OpenFlow-compliant interface for a number of high performance Allied Telesis AlliedWare Plus switch families. This interface will complement its extensively deployed Allied Telesis Management Framework (AMF) network management and control solution.

Enterprises and communication service providers are moving to smarter networks, based on software programmability via API and central control interfaces. Because Software Defined Networking (SDN) is based on data center deployments, it lacks the management infrastructure that is necessary for widespread adoption by enterprise networks. A hybrid SDN solution can provide enterprises with the seamless migration strategies they need to achieve a programmable network.

The hybrid nature of the Allied Telesis OpenFlow implementation allows its switches to act as either standard intelligent switches, or as OpenFlow-compliant devices on a per-interface basis. This allows network administrators to build a conventional network and move it toward an SDN solution at a speed that suits their business requirements, without requiring hardware changes or forklift upgrades.

"The Allied Telesis Enterprise SDN solution leverages cloud computing technology in conjunction with established enterprise design principles, by focusing on real business benefits. The introduction of OpenFlow-compliant interfaces on the Allied Telesis x510 and x930 Series switches and Allied Telesis AT-DC2552XS/L3 switch, in conjunction with AMF, enables IT personnel to easily and securely manage their infrastructure." stated Philip Yim, Senior Vice President, Global Program Management, Allied Telesis.

"The combination of AMF and OpenFlow-capable switches will be a very attractive proposition for customers looking to lower their operating costs today, and future-proof their networks for tomorrow." said Graham Walker, Senior Product Manager at Allied Telesis. "While everyone else is talking about SDN, Allied Telesis is providing real solutions with tangible business benefits," Walker added.