Successfully deploying edge networks

Today, there is a clear need for enhanced network performance, required to offer end users the experience they expect. This demand is largely driven by bandwidth-hungry applications such as mobile computing, HD video and cloud services. The further we move from large urban areas, the more the quality of high-bandwidth applications may suffer. So-called ‘edge data centres’ are a way of countering this. Positioned away from traditional hubs, these are located on the ‘edge’ of the internet. This allows large volumes of frequently-referenced content and applications to be cached on servers located closer to less densely networked or ‘tier-two’ markets.

However, there are a few things to consider when taking this route. For one thing, space constraints need to be factored in from the outset. Most edge data centres contain between five and 20 in a limited space. Cabling from servers is often directly connected to a fibre platform in a central network cabinet. Data needs to move through cables at awkward angles without a loss of quality. The fibre used must be able to accommodate twisting, moving, adding and changing of cables.

This network cabinet will also require ample space for switches, so an ultra-high density fibre solution is required. After all, data-hungry technology solutions might expand at amazing speeds, however, the backbone can’t simply be replaced every few years. All fibres are directly brought from server ports to a Ultra High Density platform. Current solutions can accommodate up to 50% more fibre optic connections in a traditional housing. Cables should have a very high fibre count which can be handled in the same way as smaller cables, and be as easy to terminate as possible.

Consecutive generations

An edge network may have to support several consecutive generations of hardware and bandwidth standards so high density – higher than 100 ports per rack unit - is essential. Traditional UHD solutions based on 72 ports per unit simply won’t suffice. Edge ports may be more costly than their ‘regular’ counterparts, but saving money here is not advisable.

‘Edge’ or ‘access’ switches connect directly to end-user devices. In choosing an edge switch, high port density and low costs per port are key. Ample port capacity means lower cost of patching as the user can simply repatch devices themselves, instead of asking a technical employee to make changes in the central system.

Cable management is also key. Double check measurements, ensure terminations are of the best possible quality, test wherever necessary, label and colour-code, watch out for cramped conduits and make absolutely sure there are no cables or bundles resting upon others. Bad cable management can result in signal interference and crosstalk, damage and failure, resulting in data transmission errors, performance issues and downtime.

As edge data centres are widely distributed across the country, automated asset management and tracking makes life way easier. A  specialised solution is required for tracing and monitoring all changes to a physical network, including switches, servers and patch panels. A systems that offer functions for mapping, managing, analysing and planning cabling and network cabinets can also include asset management, planned and unplanned changes and alarms. Such systems improve operational efficiency and facilitate management of passive infrastructure.

An integrated hardware and software system automatically detects when cords are inserted or removed and documents the cabling infrastructure, including connected equipment. Everything can be monitored and administrated from a common software tool. The entire infrastructure is represented in a consistent, up to date database, offering precise, real-time information on the current state and future requirements of the data centre.  

It’s always worth pointing out that today’s dynamic data centre environments require ongoing, precise and efficient asset management. The average data centre surface area is currently between 1,000 and 2,500 m2, with thousands of network ports. Yet all too many network managers still carry out inventory and management of physical infrastructure with Excel sheets - or even paper, pencil and post-its. This makes developing realistic expansion plans and carrying out risk analyses more or less impossible, let alone complying with legislation and best practices governing data security and availability….