By Robert J. Flask, Viavi Solutions
Communications and data service growth is driving the demand for Ethernet services. Many Ethernet services, such as cellular backhaul have stringent Service Level Agreement (SLA) requirements. SLA requirements are verified at time of turn-up and can be monitored in the background. With the extensive reach and coverage of the Hybrid Fiber Coax (HFC) networks, cable operators are well positioned to utilize DOCSIS as a delivery method for Ethernet services. Legacy DOCSIS systems including DOCSIS3.0 have limitations that prevent it from being used for timing critical Ethernet services. DOCSIS 3.1 has added additional mechanisms that if designed and implemented can provide capability to provide Ethernet services to stringent services such as Advanced LTE backhaul. Best practices for Ethernet service SLA compliance can be implemented that include turn up and automation to simplify the process. There are various testing standards used for validating business service SLA’s including RFC-6349, RFC-2544,Y.1564, Y.1731. Many of these standards weren’t very relevant with DOCSIS 3.0 but now are likely to become part of the repertoire of DOCSIS 3.1 Ethernet service deployments.