Two major trends in telecom networks are likely to influence purchasing decisions regarding WAN switches. One, both the incumbent operators and private telcos are in the process of introducing broadband services. Two, the emergence of Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS).

Both BSNL and MTNL are about to launch DSL services across the country. Both already have a managed leased line data network services in the metros and major cities, which is being expanded to more than a hundred cities. Private operators like Tatas and Reliance have also indicated that they will be launching a host of data services, in addition to telephone services.

This is forcing the service providers to go in for a high-bandwidth capable backbone. Incumbents are having to upgrade their Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) infrastructures. The existing ATM switches simply can’t cope with the number of connections they’re now having to handle—bearing in mind that each DSL user needs at least a couple of ATM connections. The rollout of 2.5G mobile networks by GSM operators and data applications on CDMA networks is also likely to have a similar impact.

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) has emerged as a mechanism for aggregating customer data IP streams in carrier networks, to make them manageable. It underpins the rollout of IP-based services such as virtual private networks (VPNs) and LAN-interconnect—services that promise to help carriers make a profit sooner or later.

Although the rollout of MPLS is still in its early days (BSNL is implementing the country’s first MPLS-based VPN services), carriers can’t ignore it. They need to make sure that whatever WAN equipment they install now will support MPLS and native Internet Protocol (IP) when and if they need it—and not just support it but also deliver outstanding performance so they’re not left behind in the race to roll out next-generation IP services.