Responding to the new trend toward distributed networking, which has gained momentum due to carriers’ embrace of the IMS framework, session border controller vendor Newport Networks Group PLC at VON this week introduced the 310 Border Gateway. The product basically delivers media handling in a small-scale package without the signalling piece offered in traditional session border controller solutions.
“SBCs are definitely moving toward a distributed architecture, especially with large operators” because it’s more efficient to handle media on the edge of the network to optimize routing, said Guy Reiffer, product marketing director at Newport Networks.
Indeed, Acme Packet just last month announced standalone border gateway, session controller and signaling firewall solutions, which previously were available from the vendor only as part of its integrated session border controller solution.
Newport Networks’ Reiffer notes that some service providers now want to control their border gateways with other IP gear, such as softswitches, so it makes sense to offer a variety of products that deliver border gateway functionality without requiring that signalling go along for the ride.
The 310 Border Gateway can handle 1,000 to more than 35,000 media sessions, which is ideal for small and medium scale locations. The company also has an existing 1460 Border Gateway for larger deployments.
The new product, slated for general availability in the fourth quarter, can be controlled via a Megaco/H.248 interface by the 1460 Border Controller or a third-party softswitch.
Newport Networks Group PLC www.newport-networks.com
