The UAE-based telecom company is deploying zero-touch networking services on its existing fibre broadband network
Nokia is deploying software defined access networks for du. (Credit: Patrick.frene/Wikimedia Commons)
Nokia said that it is deploying software defined access networks (SDAN) for du (formerly Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company or EITC) to facilitate zero-touch network operations.
Through a three-year project, the two companies aim to bring cutting-edge technologies to the UAE.
Du is deploying zero-touch networking services on its existing fibre broadband network.
Du chief technology officer Saleem AlBlooshi said: “Adding SDANs to our infrastructure is an essential step in keeping up with the demands of our business as we move towards faster speeds and a more virtualized environment.
“A key component of du’s network strategy is the inclusion of SDAN in order to ensure that the company will be able to drive future value by integrating smart apps, artificial intelligence, and a higher level of automation.
“This will ensure that the user experience is as seamless as possible. As a result of these developments, we will be able to provide an enhanced customer experience which accelerates the company’s ability to meet the growing demand by utilizing fully automated operations and zero-touch services.”
Through the partnership, du will leverage Nokia’s Altiplano cloud platform.
Altiplano is said to provide the UAE-based telecom company with automation, network intelligence, and control required to support new use cases like 5G backhaul, cloud gaming, augmented reality, virtual reality, and network slicing for enterprise.
Nokia MEA middle east business vice president Rima Manna said: “We’re excited to successfully extend our long-term partnership with du on SDAN technology.
“Nokia’s end-to-end SDAN solution is changing the game for how service providers operate their networks. Delivered from a single cloud-optimized platform, we provide du the tools to efficiently unlock new business opportunities and use cases.”
In September 2022, du chose Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) for driving its digital transformation journey to 5G.