Ethernity integrates remote OLT with VOLTHA

Ethernity Networks has integrated its Programmable Remote Optical Line Terminal (OLT) with the latest release of VOLTHA from Linux Foundation Broadband.

The integration aligns with Ethernity Networks' strategy to support open and disaggregated broadband access solutions, specifically fibre to the premises, allowing communication and internet service providers (CSPs/ISPs) to deploy broadband infrastructure with improved flexibility.

VOLTHA, or Virtual OLT Hardware Abstraction, is an open-source project operating under the Linux Foundation Broadband. Designed as a multi-vendor broadband access platform, it is intended to eliminate vendor lock-in for CSPs, reduce procurement costs, and enable network automation through integration with Software-Defined Networking (SDN).

Ethernity Networks' integration of its Remote OLT solution with VOLTHA version 2.12 seeks to deliver these open platform benefits. According to the company, CSPs will be able to take advantage of cloud-based network architecture and SDN-enabled automation, while also benefiting from the flexibility to support various Optical Network Unit (ONU) types and provisioning models.

The company's built-in, hardware-based Dynamic Bandwidth Allocation (DBA) function is said to further reduce capital expenditure by enabling a lightweight software stack and reducing dependency on central processing units. Ethernity Networks has reported successful demonstration and testing of integration with multiple third-party PON ONUs using this architecture.

Ethernity Networks' PON software stack is structured to provide equipment manufacturers with several integration options. These include the BAL Stub API Layer, the gRPC Layer, the Ethernity PON Stack, or a hardware SDK Layer for direct device control and management. This modular approach is intended to facilitate a straightforward adoption process for vendors and enable CSPs to build networks tailored to their specific requirements.

David Levi, Chief Executive Officer of Ethernity Networks, highlighted the company's focus on flexible and open deployments. "By providing an open and adaptable integration approach, we empower CSPs and equipment vendors to deploy high-performance, cost-effective broadband solutions without compromising flexibility or vendor independence," said Levi.

The company describes this integration as a move aimed at advancing the evolution of open, disaggregated Passive Optical Network (PON) solutions, which support greater interoperability and reduced ownership costs. Ethernity Networks states that by building on open standards and promoting vendor interoperability, it intends to assist CSPs in modernising broadband infrastructure to meet changing user needs.