NORDUnet, an international collaboration between the Nordic national computer networks for research and education (R&E), is transforming its network to offer flexible, high-capacity and resilient network connections to the Nordic National Research and Education Networks (NREN) community.
NORDUnet is deploying converged packet optical platforms and software from Ciena, the network specialist, for programmable 100G Optical Transport Network (OTN) switching. This will enable NORDUnet to support demanding applications and high-bandwidth projects; such as bandwidth-on-demand, big data research, analytics and high-definition educational content.
The organisation operates an optical transmission system throughout Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland, Germany, Holland and the UK. With Ciena’s platforms, NORDUnet can respond rapidly to changing end-user needs and provide on-demand services, such as the spontaneous transfer of terabyte-class files amongst research institutes that are dealing with big data, for applications that support medical research, meteorology and energy research.
This is the first venture under the DANTE (Delivery of Advanced Network Technology to Europe) framework agreement, project PRISM. Ciena has been awarded an eight-year term with DANTE, enabling European NRENs to select its technology as they build and deploy next-generation networks. DANTE plans, procures, builds and operates large-scale, advanced high-speed, global R&E networks, including the pan-European GÉANT network.
Lars Lange Bjørn, manager for network planning and engineering at NORDUnet, said: 'Research and education institutions have exceptionally demanding network needs. With Ciena’s platforms we can deliver the best possible service experience to our end-customers with the flexibility and agility to quickly react to changing network requirements and to support cross-border collaborations.'
