Combining network services, such as cloud-native router, using Dell PowerEdge XR servers has several benefits not typically found when comparing to a stand-alone physical cell-site router, such as:
- Capital and Operating Expenses (CapEx and OpEx) Advantage – The solution fits perfectly within a D-RAN/5G cloud RAN strategy, as Juniper Cloud-Native Router is run on the Dell physical servers running the DU and other RAN components. It reduces the CapEx compared to physical appliances while saving on real estate, power and more by consolidating multiple boxes into one.
- Scalability – As in the case with a software product, adding or decommissioning of a network function is quick with relatively less operational overhead and small lead times.
- Agility – Installations are very quick using Dell PowerEdge XR servers, integrated next to the optical channel data unit (ODU) as a cloud-native system, reducing the deployment times when compared to a physical router deployment.
- Continuous Configuration – Cloud-Native Router can be configured and spawned using tools like K8S manifest, NetConf, Terraform, and Junos Command Line Interface, and Helm.
- Consolidation – Since the same server hardware can now be used for multiple functions (routing as well as other functions), it eliminates the need for separate hardware for specific functions. This approach significantly reduces the power, space, and cooling needed to meet the needs of the service provider
- Minimal footprint – The number of physical CPU cores ranges between 2 and 4 cores, which can be shared with the Host Operating System of choice.
Figure 4. Juniper Cloud-Native Router overview