Dell EMC Launches Universal CPE Solutions

Dell (News - Alert) EMC next month will introduce a family of virtualized, universal CPE solutions. These solutions provide a lower cost and more flexible alternative to today’s existing fixed function access hardware. The products begin shipping worldwide April 24.

The Virtual Edge Platform addresses both enterprise and service provider network operators. Verizon is among the service providers working on uCPE initiatives. And several reports note Dell EMC’s (News - Alert) new offerings will better position it to compete with Cisco, which is working on uCPE with such companies as Orange.

SD-WAN access is one of the key use cases of the Virtual Edge Platform. The solution is pre-integrated and –validated with Silver Peak Systems, Versa Networks, and VeloCloud Networks SD-WAN software.

This is just one of the many things the Virtual Edge Platform can do. This uCPE, which features front-panel expandability, can support various virtual network functions at the same time. And it can be upgraded and serviced easily in the field.

Intel’s (News - Alert) Xeon D-2100 processor powers the Virtual Edge Platform from Dell EMC. The uCPE also employs Intel’s QuickAssist Technology and Data Plane Development Kit, which optimize compute resources and bring greater efficiency to security workloads.  

“There is a real need among service providers and enterprises to update network operations to address distributed and cloud-based applications and capitalize on changing economics enabled by cloud models,” said Tom Burns, senior vice president, Networking & Service Provider Solutions. “By infusing Open Networking into access networks to the cloud with the Virtual Edge Platform family, Dell EMC can help customers modernize infrastructure and transform operations while automating service delivery and processes.”

These new Dell EMC products are part of the company’s previously announced Open Networking initiative.

“Transforming IT operations to drive innovation is a foundational element to the broader digital transformation efforts happening with enterprises and service providers,” said Tom Burns, senior vice president of networking, enterprise infrastructure, and service provider solutions, speaking in October. “Our Open Networking [is] aimed at accelerating transformation, improving agility, lowering costs and enabling new services and applications.”